Tip #5. Mastering the Sections

Some things in life never change. However, it turns out the SAT is not one of those things! in 2005, the SAT made significant changes by adding a "Writing" section and revising the existing "Math" and "Critical Reading" sections.
What this means for you:

• The addition of a writing section means students' writing ability is now being evaluated by admissions departments in two ways, the SAT and their admissions essay. Translation: Writing is more important than ever for admissions.


• The Critical Reading section was revised weighting comprehension heavier than vocabulary. Translation: Colleges are more interested in students that can comprehend and analyze what they read. The days of being able to memorize "frequently tested word" lists as a means of compensating for poor comprehension skills are over.


• The Math section now includes additional concepts and content typically seen in college bound student's third year of high school math. Translation: These changes may affect your testing timeline. Most students will be through all of the revised junior year content by the time they are taking the SAT, but if not, be prepared to take extra test prep time and be sure all math concepts have been covered.

Understanding the test is as important as understanding the content of the test. Every point counts!