The digital SAT has a new format, new software and new ways to study! Keep reading to discover some helpful tips and resources to help you study for the digital SAT!
What is the digital SAT?
The SAT is a college-entrance and standardized exam that some colleges require for admission or scholarship consideration. The SAT is a multiple-choice test that tests students on math and evidence-based reading and writing skills. Your SAT score will be used in addition to other factors such as GPA and extracurricular activities to determine if you will receive admission from a college or university.
Starting in 2024, the SAT has become digital! Meaning, it will be only administered online via a computer or other testing device. No written format will be given out to students unless they have specific testing accommodations.
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What is the digital SAT format?
The digital SAT is made up of two sections: Reading and Writing and Math. Below is a chart detailing the time allowed and number of questions for each section.
| Section | Time Allowed (minutes) | Number of Questions |
| Reading and Writing | 64 (2 32-minute modules) | 54 |
| Math | 70 (2 35-minute modules) | 44 |
| Total | 134 (2 hours and 14 minutes) | 98 |
The digital SAT uses adaptive testing which means the questions you see on the exam will depend on how you answered the prior questions. So, the first module of each section will contain a range of easy, medium and hard questions. Based on the student’s performance on the first module, the second module will either be more or less difficult.
Remember there is no penalty for guessing! It is better to guess than leave your response blank.
Related: Is the SAT hard?
Tips for studying for the digital SAT
So, how should someone study for this new digital SAT?
Ask yourself if the SAT is right for you
To begin you should reflect to see if the SAT is worth it for your personal circumstances and goals to take! Many colleges and universities have become test-optional or even test-free. So, research schools and programs that interest you to determine if taking the SAT is the right choice for you.
Check out: The complete guide to test-optional colleges
Set a goal
Setting a goal will help you study for the SAT. You can decide on a goal score to help you focus on achieving that goal. You can also set smaller goals such as how many days a week you will study or how many practice tests you will take. Ultimately, goal-setting can help you stay focused and reach your goals!
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Create a study plan
Having a study plan can help you stay on track to reach your SAT goals. By breaking up your studying into smaller chunks it can make it more manageable to study even through your busy schedule of extracurricular activities and studying for your high school classes.
Here is an example of a study plan for the SAT:
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
| 15 minutes of math practice | 15 minutes of reading practice | Break | 15 minutes of math practice | 15 minutes of reading practice | Full-length practice test | Break |
This example study plan is a more digestible way to study rather than cramming for hours straight a few nights before the SAT. In fact, you can increase your study times as each week passes to ensure that you are ready for the real SAT.
You should be starting your study plan 2-3 months prior to the SAT to give yourself enough time and flexibility to study before you need to take the exam.
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Pay attention in class
Paying attention in class is one of the best things you can do to help you study for the SAT! Although you are probably not taking SAT-catered classes in your high school, simply paying attention to the material you are learning can be extremely helpful. For example, the SAT math section tests students on algebra, geometry and trigonometry. So, if you are currently taking one of those classes you can focus on the other subjects in your outside-of-school SAT studying without having to worry too much about the subject matter you are learning in school.
Check out: What classes should I take senior year of high school?
Familiarize yourself with the online format
Becoming familiar with the format of the SAT will help you greatly! In order to become familiar, you should explore the Bluebook software and take practice tests in a simulated environment. Research tips and tricks in the SAT format such as the digital calculator or scrap paper so you will maximize the resources available to you.
Free resources for studying for the digital SAT
Bluebook practice tests
Taking practice tests through Bluebook will help you simulate the real SAT testing experience. These practice tests have a time limit just like a real test. However, students can pause their timer if necessary (which you cannot do during the real SAT). All of the tools available to students during the real SAT are available in the Bluebook practice tests. These practice tests are free for students to take and are the best way to become familiar with the format of the digital SAT.
My practice
My practice is a tool used by the College Board which allows students who have taken a Bluebook practice test to log in to view their score results and practice test questions, answers and explanations. This will be extremely helpful in showing you where your strengths and weaknesses lie to help target your studying prior to taking the real SAT.
Khan Academy
An official partner with the College Board, Khan Academy provides free SAT practice and prep materials for students. Khan Academy offers thousands of practice questions, videos, lessons and test-taking tips. Be sure to scroll through the resources they offer to help you prepare for the SAT!
Related: What is Khan Academy? Everything you need to know
Frequently asked questions about studying for the digital SAT
Is the digital SAT a harder test?
The difficulty level of the digital SAT is the same as the previous paper SAT.
When should I start studying for the digital SAT?
It is recommended that you start studying for the SAT around 2-3 months before your test date. However, everyone studies differently so it may take you less or longer to fully study for the SAT.
What is the best way to do well on the digital SAT?
The best thing you can do to receive a good score on the digital SAT is to become familiar with the format! Knowing what tools and resources are available to you during the test can allow you to focus your energy on questions that need your full-attention. So, take lots of practice tests before taking the real SAT and play around with the Bluebook software to gain an understanding of the new digital SAT format.
