What's the content breakdown for the SAT? Like, which subjects/areas does it test in, and can anyone recommend good resources to help me understand the material better? I know there's math and reading, but any specifics would be great, thanks!
The SAT is a standardized test that assesses your skills in two main areas: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Here's a breakdown of the content covered in each section:
1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW)
- Reading Test: The Reading Test covers passages from literature, history/social studies, and science. You'll be asked to analyze and interpret the given passages, as well as their charts, tables, and graphs. The test emphasizes your ability to understand words in context, understand the main idea and supporting details, and draw inferences from the text.
- Writing and Language Test: The Writing and Language Test asks you to analyze passages and improve their grammar, punctuation, wording, and overall structure. You'll need to demonstrate an understanding of standard English conventions, effective language use, and organization of ideas.
2. Math Test
- Math skills assessed on the SAT are divided into four domains: Heart of Algebra, Passport to Advanced Math, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Additional Topics in Math. The Math Test consists of two modules, and you can use a calculator on both.
- Heart of Algebra: This domain focuses on linear equations and systems, including solving linear equations and inequalities, understanding the connections among linear equations, and analyzing linear functions.
- Passport to Advanced Math: This domain covers quadratic and non-linear functions, such as understanding and interpreting quadratic expressions and equations, as well as working with rational and radical expressions.
- Problem Solving and Data Analysis: This domain evaluates your ability to interpret and analyze data presented in tables and graphs, as well as your problem-solving skills in real-life situations using ratios, rates, and proportional relationships.
- Additional Topics in Math: This domain includes topics such as geometry, trigonometry, and complex numbers. You'll work with circles, triangles, angles, coordinate geometry, and more.
To familiarize yourself with the SAT content and practice, several resources can help:
- The CollegeBoard website: CollegeBoard, the organization that administers the SAT, provides several free resources, including sample questions, practice tests, and test-taking tips. They also offer an SAT Practice app (Bluebook™) that allows you to preview the digital SAT and take a full-length practice test.
- Khan Academy: Khan Academy offers a free, comprehensive SAT prep course that includes instructional videos, practice questions, and full-length practice tests. This resource is particularly helpful since it has a partnership with CollegeBoard, ensuring that the material is up-to-date and relevant.
- CollegeVine: CollegeVine offers a free SAT guide with detailed content breakdowns, effective study strategies, and resources for additional practice.
Using a combination of these resources should give you a solid understanding of the SAT's content and help you prepare effectively. Good luck!
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