SAT Exam Topics and Sample Questions
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
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