You may have previously taken practice tests or the actual SAT on paper, but now that the SAT has gone digital, how do you prepare most effectively for this new format? Studying for this standardized test requires a combination of strategies and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
1. Review the Digital Format
Familiarize yourself with the digital format of the SAT – understand how the test is structured, including the number of sections, types of questions, and overall layout, as outlined in our blog post.
2. Practice with Official Tools
Use the College Board’s official SAT practice platform – the Bluebook app – which provides digital practice tests and sample questions. So far, four official digital SAT practice tests are available. These allow you to become comfortable with the digital interface and tools, such as highlighting, flagging questions, and using the on-screen calculator.
3. Simulate Test Conditions
Practice taking digital SAT practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the experience of the actual test. Use a quiet, distraction-free environment and follow the timing guidelines for each section.
4. Use Classic Techniques
Although the format is different, the classic techniques for answering the SAT’s multiple-choice questions still work. For example, using the process of elimination to eliminate obviously incorrect answer choices will narrow down your options and increase your chances of selecting the correct answer. Or for math questions, consider plugging in answer choices to see which one fits the given conditions or equations. This can help you quickly identify the correct solution.
5. Practice Time Management
Time management is crucial on the digital SAT, so practice pacing yourself to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time. Use strategies such as skipping difficult questions and coming back to them later if necessary.
6. Utilize Tools Effectively
Familiarize yourself with the digital tools provided, such as the highlighting features and the Desmos calculator that is available for use on the entire math section. This is the version for the digital SAT, PSAT, and NMSQT. Practice using these tools efficiently to solve problems and annotate passages effectively.
7. Review Technical Requirements
Make sure your device meets the technical requirements for taking the digital SAT. Check compatibility with the official testing platform, ensure a stable internet connection, and familiarize yourself with any additional requirements or guidelines.
8. Stay Updated
Keep abreast of any updates or changes to the digital SAT format or testing procedures. Visit the College Board website regularly for the latest information and announcements.
9. Stay Calm and Confident
On test day, stay calm and confident in your abilities. Trust in your preparation and strategies, and approach each question methodically and thoughtfully.
How to Study for the Digital SAT
Need more targeted practice problems to prepare for the test effectively? Our digital SAT tutors can work with you to pinpoint which areas to work on and offer plenty of practice problems for specific topics!
Yuki is a skilled educator with a degree in Chemistry from Carnegie Mellon University. She discovered her passion for teaching math after tutoring at an after-school program. With five years of tutoring experience, Yuki creates a supportive learning environment for students. Outside of tutoring, she enjoys trying new cuisines and playing piano.
