If you're seeing this message, it means we're having trouble loading external resources on our website.

If you're behind a web filter, please make sure that the domains *.kastatic.org and *.kasandbox.org are unblocked.

Main content

SAT content and format

A basic overview of the SAT and its sections
An overview of the content and format of the SAT

A list of key terms that you might encounter while preparing for the SAT

Want to join the conversation?

  • blobby green style avatar for user Eyu
    Hey there, I am taking the SAT on March 12,2022. From the rare times I worked on the practice tests, I saw that I was good on math portions including my time usage. I scored good marks on the writing and language test but the reading test is really giving me a hard time for 3 reasons: Hard words to understand, losing concentration and time usage. Plus I can not give my whole time to exercise the SAT at the moment as I am a 12 grader and I shall focus on my academics too. So please give me an advice to overcome my problems on the reading test in a short time and get ready for the SAT. And of course I can get a score of 1350+ minimum.
    (47 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • blobby green style avatar for user jamesmcw321
      Coming from a person who got two questions wrong in the reading section, the best thing you can do is simply read the passage. While you are reading, you'll want to take away the main points, don't worry about the intricate and abstract meaning. You also have to remember that the questions and answers are 100% objective, so it's important to recognize the answers that seem like a stretch are most likely wrong.
      (47 votes)
  • blobby green style avatar for user s27197953
    do you get marked down if you answer a question and it is wrong
    (10 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • piceratops ultimate style avatar for user Hecretary Bird
      If you answer a question and it is wrong, you do not gain any points. If you answer a question and it is right, you gain some points. If you do not answer a question, you do not gain any points.
      For this reason, since skipping an answer and guessing wrong on it get you the same thing, you should always bubble in an answer for every question, even if it is just a completely random guess.
      (51 votes)
  • blobby green style avatar for user Eyu
    How can I improve my time usage in the SAT?
    (22 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
  • blobby green style avatar for user Bushra Ali Mustafa
    Is practicing from Khan Academy enough for my test?
    (4 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
  • blobby green style avatar for user ANNAL
    how much time are you given to finish the the SAT?
    (3 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • female robot amelia style avatar for user Johanna
      The link "SAT Content and Format" gives the following times:

      Reading Test – 65 minutes, 52 questions
      Writing and Language Test – 35 minutes, 44 questions
      Math Test – two sections:
      1) No calculator – 25 minutes, 20 questions
      2) Calculator permitted – 55 minutes, 38 questions

      There are also some short breaks and a random fifth section, so the test takes 3+ hours.

      I hope this helps!
      (28 votes)
  • starky tree style avatar for user Flores, Jhovany
    will there be any writing at all
    (3 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • female robot amelia style avatar for user Johanna
      There is a Writing section, but no part of the test requires you to actually write something that will be graded. It's all multiple choice, though there are a few technically "student-produced" answers at the end of each Math section.

      Does that help?
      (24 votes)
  • blobby green style avatar for user Sami Ata Cakir
    Do you get extra time for filling out the answer sheet?
    (4 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
  • blobby green style avatar for user mbreidenbach
    Hey there, I'm taking the SAT for the first time soon, and I was wondering if there was an essay portion for it? Thanks for your help!
    (4 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
  • blobby green style avatar for user Atom Chahande
    Is there a way to concentrate better on the SAT? Every time I do the reading section, I am like reading fast because the time goes by really fast and my brain just blanks, and I have no clue what I am reading, then I have to restart. (Sorry for run-on sentence).
    (5 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • starky sapling style avatar for user Luke Chapman
      Great question. Sometimes you just need to look at the question first and read the passage. There is a way to deciper each one of the questions too because sometimes they are asked a certain way, and depending on what its asking you can almost answer the question without looking really much at the passage. Try that and see if it works. The PDF and extra help on this is with practice, full tests, etc. Hope this helps a bit.
      (4 votes)
  • starky seedling style avatar for user ian.kim
    what is life all about
    (6 votes)
    Default Khan Academy avatar avatar for user
    • mr pants green style avatar for user Andrew Mathew
      The question "What is life all about?" is a profound and philosophical inquiry that has fascinated humans for centuries. It touches upon the fundamental nature and purpose of existence. While there is no definitive answer that applies to everyone, I can offer you some perspectives that people often contemplate when pondering this question.

      Meaning and Purpose: Many individuals seek meaning and purpose in life. For some, it may involve personal fulfillment, relationships, career achievements, or making a positive impact on the world. Some find meaning through spirituality, religion, or a philosophical outlook.

      Personal Growth and Experience: Life can be seen as an opportunity for personal growth, learning, and self-discovery. It is about exploring and experiencing the world, broadening our horizons, and continuously evolving as individuals.

      Connections and Relationships: Human connections and relationships often hold great significance. Many find that life is about forming deep bonds, cultivating loving relationships, and finding a sense of belonging and support within communities.

      Pursuit of Happiness and Well-being: Life can be viewed as a journey towards happiness and well-being. It involves seeking out experiences, activities, and relationships that bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of contentment.

      Contribution and Service: Some individuals find that life is about making a positive difference in the lives of others. It could be through acts of kindness, contributing to society, or dedicating oneself to a cause or profession that helps others.

      Transcendent or Spiritual Perspectives: Certain philosophical or spiritual viewpoints propose that life is part of a larger cosmic or divine plan. It may involve seeking spiritual enlightenment, understanding the interconnectedness of all things, or finding meaning beyond the physical world.

      Ultimately, the meaning of life is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. It's a question that invites deep introspection and reflection, and the answer may evolve as we grow and experience life. It's important for your friend to explore their own beliefs, values, and passions to find what resonates with them personally
      (1 vote)