SAT is a paper-based standardized test that is used as one of the entrance criteria for admission to universities and colleges in the US. School students from around the world take the SAT to showcase their college-preparedness and skills that they have developed at school.
SAT has the following exam pattern:
|
SECTION |
QUESTIONS |
TIME IN MINUTES |
|
Reading |
52 |
65 |
|
Writing and Language |
44 |
35 |
|
Math |
58 |
80 |
|
SAT Essay |
1 task |
50 |
The SAT exam lasts for 3 hours and 50 minutes if you choose to write the essay. The score ranges from 400-1600. Take a look at the latest SAT syllabus 2021 and make sure that you are headed in the right direction with your SAT prep.
This section is a part of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component of the SAT. It consists of 5 passages and a total of 52 questions. You are required to read and understand these passages and answer the questions that follow within 65 minutes.
Each 500-750 words-long passage may be taken from:
Each passage is followed by 10-11 multiple-choice questions with four answer choices. Broadly speaking, the questions are of the following types:
SAT does not expect you to have prior knowledge of the passage topics as the questions that are asked are always based on the passage. However, familiarity with these topics is recommended because one, it helps you develop a reading habit and two, it is a definitive confidence-building measure.
This section is a part of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component of the SAT. It consists of 4 passages and a total of 44 multiple-choice questions. You are required to read and understand these passages and answer the questions that follow in 35 minutes.
Each passage may be taken from articles or write-ups related to:
Commonly-asked question types are based on:
Prior knowledge of topics is not required as all questions lie within the scope of the passage. Some passages may be accompanied by graphs or charts that check your interpretative skills (not mathematical skills).
Together, the above two sections are scored on a scale of 200-800.
The Math component of the SAT has two parts: Math Test-Calculator and Math Test-No calculator. Math Test-Calculator has 38 questions to be answered within 55 minutes and Math Test-No Calculator has 20 questions to be answered within 25 minutes. The calculator part of the test involves complex calculations that necessitates the use of calculator, but if you are comfortable you can choose not to use one. Check out SAT-approved calculators.
The Math test focuses on three core areas:
Linear equations with rational coefficients, system of linear equations(with no solution, finite or infinite solutions), linear inequalities in two variables and their systems, graphical representation of linear function.
Percentages; ratio and proportion; unit conversion; equation of line or curve using a scatterplot; two-way tables to calculate conditional frequencies and conditional probabilities; association of variables or independence of events; estimation of a population parameter; calculation of mean, median, mode, range and standard deviation in statistics; evaluation of reports to check appropriateness of data collection methods.
Quadratic equations with rational coefficients; determination of the most suitable form of an expression; addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of polynomial equations; zeros and factors of polynomials, non-linear relationship between two variables, function notation, isolation of a variable by rearrangement of formula or equation.
SAT provides you with a cheat sheet of important formulae. Although most questions in the Math section are multiple-choice, 22 per cent are grid-in questions wherein a student has to solve the problem, write the correct answer in the box provided and circle the corresponding bubble in the OMR sheet provided.
The Math section is scored on a scale of 200-800.
This is the optional component of the SAT. However, some universities require or recommend it. Check SAT essay requirements in your college of choice.
SAT essay allows you to demonstrate your reading, analysis and writing skills. You are given 50 minutes to read a 650-750 words-long passage and then write an analysis about how the author builds his or her argument. This type of question is a standard feature of the SAT essay. The passage, of course, varies each time. Remember, you are required to analyse the author’s text and identify the evidence that the author uses to support his or her argument. So, refrain from stating your opinion. Take a look at the SAT Essay Guide to know more.
Whether you have just begun your SAT prep or are nearly done with it, it always helps to streamline your prep with the latest SAT syllabus. Happy prepping!
Prepared by Jamboree Faculty
SAT syllabus for all 3 sections is well-defined. On an average students take around 2 to 3 months to prepare for the SAT. This is the normal timeline when the student puts in at least 1 hour of dedicated preparation every day without fail.
SAT does not test you on grammar or vocabulary. You need to develop your reasoning skills and common sense to ace SAT questions. At Jamboree, our SAT tutors will help you with concepts and strategies which you will be able to apply to do well on the SAT. SAT mock tests will further develop your speed and acumen.
SAT syllabus of Math section is very similar to your high school syllabus. So you will be largely familiar with all the topics. However, a lot of it is about concepts and a lot more is about application of your reasoning skills. You may actually know how to solve the question but your method could be longer and more cumbersome. Our SAT faculty will help you sharpen your problem-solving approach.
No, if you are a CBSE, ISC or State Board student, you will need additional study material. Jamboree's SAT study material is comprehensive and covers the entire SAT syllabus. Through more than 27 years of SAT teaching experience and a dedicated team of faculty and subject matter experts, we have made sure that our SAT books, handouts, tests and SAT student portal is updated at all times. You will not need to refer to anything else.
The most trusted name in test prep & admissions
Take the first step towards success with Jamboree.
Student Login
