SAT Exam Syllabus and Pattern
Exam Structure
The SAT is divided into two sections:
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Reading and Writing
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Math
Each section consists of two modules, totalling 2 hours and 14 minutes (134 minutes). There is a 10-minute break between the two sections. The second module adjusts its difficulty level based on the performance in the first, a unique feature of the SAT exam.
Most questions are multiple choice, providing a range of options to choose from. Some Math questions require student-produced responses, allowing you to demonstrate your understanding in your own words.
Section | Time Allotted | Number of Questions |
|---|---|---|
Total | 134 minutes | 98 |
Math | 70 minutes (2 × 35) | 44 |
Reading and Writing | 64 minutes (2 × 32) | 54 |
Reading and Writing Section
Consists of short passages (25–150 words), each followed by one multiple-choice question. Both modules include all four content domains. Passages are based on literature, history/social studies, humanities, and science. Questions are grouped by domain and ordered from easy to hard.
Content Domains:
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Information and Ideas – Interpretation of texts and data (graphs, charts, tables)
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Craft and Structure – Vocabulary in context, rhetorical analysis, text connections
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Expression of Ideas – Improving clarity, logic, and effectiveness of writing
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Standard English Conventions – Grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation
Math Section
Covers four key areas: Algebra, Advanced Math, Problem-Solving and Data Analysis, and Geometry & Trigonometry. Includes both multiple-choice and student-produced response questions. About 30% of questions are based on real-world contexts.
Math Categories and Question Distribution:
Topics Covered:
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Algebra: Linear equations/inequalities, systems of equations, functions
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Advanced Math: Quadratic, exponential, nonlinear equations and functions
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Data Analysis: Ratios, percentages, statistics, probability, graph analysis
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Geometry & Trigonometry: Area, volume, circles, angles, right triangles, trigonometric relationships