Big changes are coming to the SAT, and it’s time to prepare! The SAT is transitioning to a digital format starting in 2024, and whether you’re familiar with the traditional version or not, this shift marks a significant evolution in how students will approach the test. To succeed, it’s essential to understand the difference between the old SAT and the new SAT and how these changes affect your test preparation. We’re here to break it all down and provide essential tips on how to prepare for the SAT in this new digital era.
When Are the SAT Changes Happening?
Starting in 2024, the SAT will be fully digital for everyone. No more pencils, no more paper! This digital transformation is designed to streamline the test-taking experience and make the process easier for students.
Why Is the SAT Changing?
The College Board, the organization behind the SAT, is giving it a digital makeover for two main reasons:
- Ease of Use: The new digital SAT aims to make the test simpler and shorter, with access to digital tools that will help students focus on answering questions efficiently.
- Relevance: In our digital world, the SAT is adapting to reflect modern-day learning and testing environments. The test will offer personalized insights when you receive your scores, connecting you with colleges and career paths that align with your strengths.
The new SAT is designed to better prepare students for success in both college and their future careers.
Key Differences Between the Old SAT and New SAT
The transition from the old paper-based SAT to the new digital format brings several significant changes that will affect how students prepare for and experience the test. Understanding these differences is crucial for your SAT preparation, as they can influence your study strategies and test-day approach. Here’s a closer look at the key changes:
1. Fully Digital Format
Perhaps the most dramatic change is that the new SAT will be entirely digital. Instead of using paper and pencil, students will take the test on a laptop or tablet using a special application called Bluebook. This move to a digital format is designed to make the test more convenient and accessible. Gone are the days of worrying about broken pencils or erasers—now, you’ll be typing and selecting answers on a screen.
The digital SAT format also allows for more flexibility in test-taking environments. You can bring your own device (laptop or tablet), or if you don’t have one, the test center will provide a device for you. This change makes the test feel more in tune with the digital age, reflecting the tools and technologies you already use in your everyday learning.
2. Shorter Duration
One of the biggest differences between the old SAT vs. new SAT is the test length. The digital SAT will only take two hours and 14 minutes to complete, significantly shorter than the previous version, which lasted three hours. This is a welcome change for many students, as it reduces the mental fatigue often associated with long standardized tests.
The shorter duration also means that the test has been streamlined to focus on the most essential skills, eliminating unnecessary complexity. With fewer sections and questions, you can concentrate more effectively, making your time on the test more efficient and manageable.
3. Adaptive Testing
The new SAT will introduce adaptive testing, a major shift from the traditional static format of the old exam. Adaptive testing tailors the difficulty of the questions based on your performance in earlier sections. The test is divided into two modules per section—Reading & Writing, and Math. After you complete the first module, your performance will determine the difficulty of the questions in the second module.
This personalized approach means that each test-taker’s experience will be slightly different. For example, if you perform well on the first module, you’ll receive more challenging questions in the second module. If you struggle, the second module will present slightly easier questions. This ensures a more accurate measure of your abilities and reduces unnecessary stress by allowing you to engage with questions that match your skill level.
4. New Structure
Another significant change is the new structure of the test. The old SAT consisted of three sections—Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. In the new digital SAT, the Reading and Writing sections have been combined into a single Reading & Writing section, and Math remains as its own section. This streamlined format simplifies the test, making it easier for students to focus on the material without switching between too many sections.
Each section is further divided into two modules. In the Reading & Writing section, you’ll encounter shorter reading passages with one question per passage, making it more straightforward and less time-consuming. This new format reflects real-world reading and writing tasks that you’ll encounter in college and beyond. The Math section allows for the use of a graphing calculator throughout, making it more accessible and user-friendly.
5. Faster Scores
One of the most exciting changes in the new SAT is the speed at which you’ll receive your scores. In the old SAT, students often had to wait weeks to get their results. With the digital format, scores are delivered within days, allowing you to plan your next steps more quickly—whether that’s applying to colleges or preparing for a retake.
The faster turnaround time for score reports also comes with more detailed feedback. You’ll not only receive your overall score but also insights into your strengths and areas for improvement, helping you better understand your readiness for college-level work and making future SAT preparation more focused and efficient.
3 Tips for Preparing for the Digital SAT
So, how do you get ready for this new SAT? Here are some essential tips for SAT preparation:
1. Empower Your SAT Prep with Classroom Wisdom
The SAT reflects much of what you’re already learning in school. Pay close attention in class, as your coursework forms the foundation of your SAT preparation. Use your classroom knowledge to reinforce the skills tested on the SAT. And if you feel you need extra help, PALS Learning Center is here to guide you.
2. Take Practice Tests
The shift to a digital format means it’s crucial to get comfortable taking a standardized test on a screen. Make use of the practice tests provided by the College Board through their Bluebook app. Start by taking one early in your preparation, and continue to take more to track your progress.
3. Create a Personalized Study Plan
A well-organized study plan is key to ensuring consistent progress. Dedicate regular time to focus on areas where you need improvement. Whether you prefer to study on your own or in a group, make sure your plan works for you—and stick to it!
Set Your Expectations and Stay Rested
Understanding what to expect on test day can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the SAT. Take a full-length practice test to familiarize yourself with the format and timing. Planning ahead, including knowing where your test center is located and ensuring you get a good night’s sleep before the test, will help you feel more confident and ready to succeed.
Ready to Ace the SAT? Enroll in Our SAT Prep Program!
Preparing for the new digital SAT doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At PALS Learning Center, we offer expert guidance to help you master the strategies for vocabulary development, critical reading, math, and everything else you need to ace the SAT. Whether you’re looking for personalized coaching or structured courses, we’re here to ensure you’re fully prepared for test day.
Enroll in our SAT Prep Program at PALS Learning Center North Edison today, and let’s start your journey toward SAT success together!
