In the Digital SAT, the test modifies itself based on the accuracy of a student's answers, meaning the difficulty level may change as you progress through each module. The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section combines reading comprehension and grammar, while the Math section covers both practical and formula-based questions. The digital format also offers features like built-in tools, such as a calculator and flagging options which can make the test-taking experience smoother and more user-friendly for students who are planning to take the SAT Exam. 

As you get ready for the Digital SAT, it’s not just about learning the content but also about mastering strategies that can help you achieve your best score. To use these strategies effectively, you need to be familiar with the test’s layout and the sequence of sections. 

In this article you’ll find the Digital SAT Format, types of questions found in each section and time allotted to complete those questions as well!

Digital SAT Layout

Once you begin taking the test, you will see only one question at a time on the Digital SAT.

Reading and Writing Section

On the left side of the computer screen you will have an appropriate passage to go along with the question you are working on. All questions will have a unique passage. The right side of the computer screen shows the question and answer choices. You can use the Annotation tool to highlight portions of the text or question, even writing personal notes directly onto the screen.

Math Section

Any multiple-choice questions will be centered on the screen. Choices for multiple-choice questions will appear below the question. For students' response, at left there will be instructions on how to enter your answer, and at the right, the question and an input box for your answer can be found. In this section, you have a calculator built into the exam, a version of the Desmos calculator, and a reference sheet containing some of the main geometry formulas and rules.

Digital SAT Format: Section-wise Questions with Time

The Digital SAT consists of two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. Students are given 64 minutes to complete the Reading and Writing section and 70 minutes for the Math section, totaling 2 hours and 14 minutes.

Each section is split into two equal-length modules. After the Reading and Writing section, there is a 10-minute break before the Math section begins. The first module of each section features a mix of easy, medium, and hard questions. Depending on the student’s performance in the first module, the difficulty level of the second module will adjust, becoming either more challenging or easier.

Here’s the table showing the time allotted and the number of questions for each section of the Digital SAT:

SAT vs Act: Compared to the ACT, the SAT provides 68% more time per question.

Digital SAT Format: Important Points

Before taking the digital SAT test, it is crucial for students to go through these points. Take note of this important information so you don’t miss out on relevant information related to the SAT:

• Most questions on the Digital SAT are multiple choice, but some math questions require you to enter the answer manually.
• There is no penalty for guessing, so it's better to guess than to leave a question unanswered.
• After completing the two Reading and Writing modules, there is a 10-minute break, which is recommended to refresh and reduce fatigue.
• The first module of each section contains a mix of easy, medium, and hard questions; the second module adjusts in difficulty based on your performance in the first.
• Your final score depends not only on how many questions you answer correctly but also on whether you receive an easier or harder second module, which impacts your scoring potential.

Digital SAT Format: To Sum Up!

In summary, the Digital SAT is divided into two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section consists of two modules, with the difficulty of the second module adapting based on your performance in the first. There is no penalty for guessing, and a 10-minute break is provided between sections. Your overall score is influenced by both the number of correct answers and the difficulty of the second module you receive. Also, with this overview of the structure of the Digital SAT, you now know how the concepts and strategies that you’ll learn will appear on the test.