Getting ready for the latest digital SAT changes requires a strategic and adaptive approach, meaning that your test prep will also have to change. Although the digital SAT isn’t much different from the paper-based test, it’s important to be prepared and familiar with the digital interface.
To feel absolutely ready for the exam, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with Bluebook, the app in which the digital SAT is administered; learn how to manage your time differently, as the digital SAT contains fewer questions; and make use of available resources. Let’s talk about each strategy a little more.
1. Develop familiarity with the digital format
Once you’ve registered for the SAT, you can download the Bluebook app on the device you plan to use for the digital exam. After it’s downloaded, you can log in with your College Board account and familiarize yourself with the platform before the test.
Practice tests are also available on the app, and it is highly recommended to take a practice test to learn the new formatting and get used to using the tools provided on the exam, such as the highlighting tool and the flagging feature to leave questions for review. Understanding how the platform works will help you feel more comfortable on test day and help relieve any nervousness or stress.
Related: The 5 Most Significant Changes Coming to the SAT in 2024
2. Manage your time well
No matter the format, taking the SAT means you have to be aware of time restrictions. The digital SAT may have fewer questions, but that also means a shorter time in which to complete them. To make sure you have a steady rhythm for time, it helps to practice questions in the areas you find difficult to build a greater understanding.
It’s also important to take multiple practice tests to make sure you can get through each section within the allotted time without feeling rushed. Make sure you have a steady pace when answering questions, and use strategies like timing yourself and answering easier questions first to help you understand what pace works best for you.
3. Use available study resources
Updated practice tests are available through the official Bluebook app, but Khan Academy has also redesigned its whole SAT platform to accommodate the digital version. For each of the Math and English sections, Khan Academy has units with videos, articles, practice questions, quizzes, and unit tests to check for understanding. It also has course challenges for the very end once you’ve finished studying all the units. Going through all these lessons—or at least the topics that are troubling you—will help you feel more confident for the upcoming exam, especially since they are designed specifically for the new format.
Related: 4 Awesome (and Free) SAT Prep Resources
It’s important to prepare well to feel really confident about the digital SAT, and that starts with becoming familiarized and comfortable with the new platform you‘ll eventually take the test on. Keep in mind that practicing will help you find the rhythm of your testing pace and understand what areas you struggle with so you can improve before exam day. Stay focused and good luck!
You can make all this test prep pay off—literally. Learn How to Win Scholarships With Your SAT Scores here!
