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SAT Exam Topics and Sample Questions
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- Kübra Yılmaz
SAT Exam Topics and Sample Questions
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is one of the most important standardized tests for college admissions in the United States. To succeed, you need to understand the exam structure and practice the right topics.
For general information about the SAT exam, check our comprehensive guide: What is the SAT Exam?. In this article, we focus directly on the SAT exam topics you should study and sample questions to help you prepare effectively.
SAT Exam Structure
The SAT consists of two main sections:
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW)
- Mathematics
Each section is scored on a scale of 200-800, for a total possible score of 1600.
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
This section combines Reading and Writing & Language skills into one score. It tests your ability to understand passages, analyze arguments, and identify grammar and usage errors.
Reading Comprehension
Key topics:
- Main ideas and themes
- Supporting details and evidence
- Author's purpose and tone
- Vocabulary in context
- Analyzing arguments and claims
- Data interpretation from charts and graphs
A passage discusses the impact of social media on teenage mental health, presenting both positive and negative effects. The author concludes that 'moderate use with parental guidance appears to be the key.' What is the author's primary purpose?
Writing and Language
Key topics:
- Grammar and usage
- Sentence structure
- Punctuation
- Effective language use
- Organization and development
- Expression of ideas
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
The scientists discovered that the bacteria, which thrives in extreme temperatures, _____ able to survive in conditions previously thought uninhabitable.
Mathematics
The Math section is divided into two parts: one that allows calculator use and one that doesn't. Both test similar concepts.
Heart of Algebra
Key topics:
- Linear equations and inequalities
- Systems of equations
- Graphing linear functions
- Analyzing linear relationships
If 3x + 7 = 22, what is the value of x?
A company charges a flat fee of $25 plus $0.15 per mile for a rental car. Which equation represents the total cost C for driving m miles?
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
Key topics:
- Ratios, proportions, and percentages
- Unit conversions
- Data interpretation (tables, charts, graphs)
- Statistics (mean, median, mode)
- Probability
A shirt originally priced at $60 is on sale for 25% off. What is the sale price?
In a survey of 200 students, 120 prefer coffee and 80 prefer tea. If this ratio holds for 1,500 students, how many would prefer coffee?
Passport to Advanced Math
Key topics:
- Quadratic equations and functions
- Exponential functions
- Polynomial operations
- Radical and rational expressions
- Function notation
If f(x) = x² - 4x + 3, what is f(5)?
What are the solutions to the equation x² - 6x + 8 = 0?
Additional Topics in Math
Key topics:
- Geometry (area, volume, angles, triangles)
- Trigonometry basics (sine, cosine, tangent)
- Complex numbers
- Circle equations
What is the area of a circle with radius 5?
In a right triangle, if one angle is 30° and the hypotenuse is 10, what is the length of the side opposite the 30° angle?
Tips for Effective SAT Preparation
- Practice with Official Materials: Use College Board's official practice tests
- Time Management: Practice completing sections within time limits
- Identify Weak Areas: Focus extra time on topics you struggle with
- Learn Test-Taking Strategies: Process of elimination, educated guessing
- Read Regularly: Improve reading speed and comprehension
Start your personalized SAT preparation journey with PREPTEST and achieve your target score!