SAT® Test Format & Sections
Time Break-down, Question Types And New Digital SAT Structure

Are you planning to take the SAT® soon and curious about the SAT test format? This comprehensive guide will help you understand how the test is divided, question types and answer any questions related to the SAT sections and their duration.

How Is the SAT Structured?

The current SAT, which is a paper and pencil test, consists of the Reading, Writing and Language, and Math tests, lasting for three hours. However, with the commencement of the SAT going digital, several significant changes have been put forth in terms of format, question types, and duration of the test. So, whether you choose to take the paper and pencil version of the SAT or the digital one, we have got your back!

We’ll deepen your understanding so you can answer correctly each time.
Right triangle image used to determine hypotenuse length given angle
Finding the area of a shaded region given a triangle and circle
Graphing a quadratic function to find a specific variable

Frequently Answered Questions (FAQs)

The SAT is a pencil-and-paper test. You are not allowed to carry pens to the test center. However, from 2024, the SAT will be going digital worldwide, as announced by the College Board.
Most of the questions on the SAT are multiple-choice. However, on the Math Test, there are some questions known as “grid-ins” that require students to write in their answers.
No, however, if you live in Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, New Hampshire, or Oklahoma, and you are taking the SAT as part of the SAT School Day program, you may be required to write the SAT Essay.
There is no penalty for a wrong answer on the SAT test, and the final SAT scores are calculated only based on correct answers.

Read More About the SAT Test

Thinking about what the SAT is? This guide is all you need to understand the basics of SAT, the importance of taking the test, and how to prepare for a good score.
SAT Syllabus
Started preparing for your SAT? This roadmap will take you through the complete information about the SAT syllabus, types of questions on SAT and the weight of different topics.
Interested in knowing how the SAT is scored? This guide will provide you a complete breakdown of the SAT scoring guidelines. Read on to know everything about the score ranges and the test score reports.
SAT Study Guide
Ready to study for the SAT but don’t know where to start? Prepare the right way! Here is a guidebook to help you efficiently prepare for your SAT and get your dream score.
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