SAT Time Management and Test-Taking Strategies

Know the Timing for Each Section

Here’s a breakdown of the SAT’s time limits and question counts:

• Reading: 65 minutes, 52 questions
• Writing and Language: 35 minutes, 44 questions
• Math (No Calculator): 25 minutes, 20 questions
• Math (Calculator): 55 minutes, 38 questions
• Essay (Optional): 50 minutes, 1 essay

Understanding the time-per-question ratio is critical for pacing. For instance, in the Reading section, you have about 75 seconds per question, while in Math, the time varies by problem difficulty.

Prioritize Easy Questions First

On the SAT, each question is worth the same number of points. Therefore, it’s best to secure easier points first. In the Math section, skip tough problems and come back later. For Reading and Writing, if you don’t know the answer right away, mark it and move on to avoid wasting time.

This approach helps ensure you don’t lose points on easier questions by spending too much time on harder ones.

Practice the Process of Elimination

The SAT is a multiple-choice test, making the process of elimination a valuable tool. Eliminate obviously wrong answers to improve your odds of guessing correctly. For Reading, dismiss extreme answers or those not supported by the text. In Math, estimate or plug in values to rule out unlikely answers.

By narrowing down your options, you increase your chances of success, even if you’re unsure of the correct answer.

Skip and Return Later

If a question takes more than a minute or two, mark it and move on. Returning later ensures that difficult questions don’t eat into the time you could spend answering easier ones. It’s better to guess than leave questions blank, as there’s no penalty for incorrect answers.

This approach ensures maximum coverage and reduces the likelihood of running out of time before completing the section.

Practice Pacing with Timed Practice Tests

The most effective way to improve your pacing is to take full-length, timed practice tests. Simulating real test conditions will help you get used to the pressure of the actual exam day.

After each practice test, review your performance to identify areas where you’re spending too much time and adjust your strategies accordingly.

Use Time Wisely on the SAT Reading Section

The Reading section can be tricky to manage due to the length of the passages. Start by reading the questions first to understand what to look for. Skim the passage for the main idea and structure, then go back to specific details for individual questions.

This strategy helps you focus your time on relevant information without getting lost in unnecessary details.

Manage Your Time on the SAT Math Section

In the Math section, balance speed and accuracy. For the No Calculator section, practice mental math to speed up basic calculations. For the Calculator section, avoid over-relying on your calculator for simple operations as this can waste time.

If a problem requires lengthy calculations, skip it and come back later if time permits.

Stick to a Pacing Plan

Before test day, create a pacing plan for each section. In Reading, aim to finish each passage and questions in 13 minutes. For Writing and Language, spend around 8-9 minutes per passage. In Math, set time goals like completing the first 10 No Calculator questions in 12 minutes.

Having a pacing plan will help you manage your time more effectively and avoid running out of time before finishing the section.

Answer Every Question

Since the SAT has no penalty for wrong answers, it’s essential to answer every question, even if you have to guess. Use the process of elimination to narrow down your choices, then make an educated guess.

If you’re running out of time, fill in any remaining questions to give yourself a chance at earning more points.

Managing Stress and Staying Focused

Effective time management also means staying calm under pressure. If you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and refocus. Use breaks wisely to rest and clear your mind. Stay hydrated and nourished to maintain energy levels throughout the test.

By managing your stress and staying focused, you can keep your time management on track.