The Score, Issue #2: Countdown to the Digital SAT
What Parents and Students Need to Know about the College Board's Transition to Computer-Based Testing
Big Changes Ahead
As a test prep expert, I'm here to keep you updated on important changes in the standardized testing world. Starting with the PSAT in October, 2023, the College Board is switching from paper-based to computer-based exams. The digital SAT is already being administered internationally. It will debut in the US in March, 2024.
It's important to note that, as of now, all indications are that the old paper version of the test will be completely replaced by the digital format, with no option to take the traditional paper exam.
Key Differences: Exam Length and Scoring
The current paper SAT, which will be administered for the last time in December, 2023, has a length of 3 hours and a scoring range of 400-1600. The new digital SAT, debuting with the October, 2023 PSAT and March 2024, SAT, will be slightly shorter at 2 hours and 14 minutes, but will maintain the same scoring range of 400-1600.
My Experience: Taking the Practice Tests
As part of my research, I've taken the College Board's practice tests for the new digital SAT (Reading Section and Writing & Language Section only). One of the key differences I noticed is that most of the Reading "passages" are only one or two paragraphs in length, and each question has its own such passage.
Benefits of Shorter Passages
This new format (short passages for each question) allows test-takers to view the question, answer choices, and entire passage all at once, eliminating the need to scroll up and down between passage and questions. This is a significant improvement over previous digital versions of the exam.
Emphasis on Hyper-Literal Textual Analysis
The focus on shorter passages confirms that Hyper-Literal Textual Analysis is one of the key skills tested, as it emphasizes close analysis of relatively small portions of text. Reading passages on the paper-based SAT typically range from 500 to 700 words in length, which frequently encourages test-takers to concentrate on broad synthesis more than they should.
Preparing for the Digital Transition
Please note that the information I’ve shared about the upcoming changes to the digital SAT is subject to change. The College Board is still in the process of fine-tuning the rollout, and it’s possible that they may make last-minute adjustments before the official launch.
As we approach the transition to the digital SAT, I will continue to provide updates and resources to help students and parents prepare for the new format. In the meantime, I encourage you to visit the College Board website, where you can familiarize yourself with the digital SAT by completing one of their digital practice tests.