Digital SAT: 10 Smart Ways to Score High on the Reading Section

Do you know that the reading section of the Digital SAT makes up 50% of the score of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section? The EBRW section is scored out of 800, with the Reading and Writing tests each contributing equally to that score. Evidence-based reading means you understand and interpret the passage text and then use it as evidence to support your answers.

In the reading section of the Digital SAT, you can expect the passages that represent subject areas of Literature, History/ Social Studies, the Humanities, and Science. The reading and writing section consists of 54 questions, with a total duration of 65 minutes. As a prospective student planning to take the Digital SAT, you will need to have a clear understanding of question types, test format, and scoring. After this, you can build effective study strategies to achieve a high score. Let us explore the top 10 tips you can follow as a first-time test-taker preparing for the Digital SAT Exam.

Top 10 Tips to Excel in the Digital SATReading Section

The Digital SAT Reading section is the first section of the test, which also includes the writing section. For this article, we will keep our focus on the reading section aspect, wherein you will be given passages to read, and you will be expected to answer the questionnaire based on the given passage. The tips below will help you ace the section more smartly.

1.  Understand the Types of Questions

The reading section of the SAT has questions that test your analytical skills. They can be broadly classified into four domains, which are Information and Ideas, Craft and Structure, Expression of Ideas, and Standard English Conventions. The first type of question set- Information and Idea, measures your ability to find, understand, gauge, and integrate information and ideas from texts and informational graphics (tables, bar graphs, and line graphs. All the other types of questions measure your ability to draft, revise, and edit the text. Understanding different types of questions is crucial for effective exam preparation. This will allow you to prepare a personalised study plan, manage your time, and reduce anxiety.

2.  Prepare a Study Plan

Different types of questions require different study approaches. You should prepare a study plan that allows you to focus on each question type, different sections, and have allotted time for revision and taking mock tests. Make sure your study plan is achievable and manageable to avoid burnout.

3.  Read Regularly

Read a variety of materials to understand different kinds of writing styles, learn new vocabulary, and improve grammar. You can start with novels, articles, essays, and eventually start reading academic texts as well.

4. Learn to Understand the Gist

When you read, try to skim and scan the text, which helps gauge the passage to collect the main ideas and themes. You will have to practice reading and identifying the gist. This allows you to develop your ideas and perspective on the passage, making it easier to answer the questions faster.

5. Improve Paraphrasing &Amp; Summarizing Skills

As you read, try to restate the information in your own words to solidify your understanding. For this, you will have to learn to reorder the sentences, use synonyms, break down long sentences, and alter the sentence types.

6. Understand the Tone of Writing

While reading, pay attention to the tone and purpose of the text. Try to recognize the author’s attitude and the overall message they are trying to convey. Usually, the tone of the text is positive, negative, or neutral.

7. Improve Your Vocabulary

Students are expected to be well-versed in using high-utility words and phrases and even idioms. Hence, you must focus on improving your vocabulary by learning a few new words every day. Along with that, understand context and learn how to use those words in your texts, with correct grammar.

8.  Manage Your Time Well

The most important tip is to learn how to manage your time well. Attempt the questions first that you find easy, so that you have time left to cover the difficult questions. With sufficient practice, you can build efficient time strategies to complete the test in time.

9. Take Mock Tests

Attempting full-length SAT Practice Tests under timed conditions creates an exam-like environment, which helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses, improve time management skills, and build confidence to appear for the actual test.

10. Find the Right Resources

Utilize the right resources when you begin your preparations. While there are a lot of resources out there, it is best to refer to the official website of the Digital SAT. If you prefer books, there is an official ‘SAT Study Guide’ book by the College Board you can refer to.

Lastly, start your preparation early, at least 3-4 months before your test date, so that you have ample time to learn and follow all the above-mentioned tips. If you need additional support with personalized feedback, you can also consider joining a SAT online coaching center near you.