How the SAT Is Scored

How the SAT Is Scored

The SAT consists of three separate tests—reading, writing, and math—each with its own 200 to 800 score. The lowest possible total score is 600; the highest possible score is 2400.

Now, the moment you enter the exam room and start taking the test, guess how many points you start off with. The answer surprises most people: 2400.

That's right: for signing your name on the answer sheet, you start off the test with 2400 points. I kid you not; when you enter the exam room, your starting score is 2400.

That's the good news.

Here's the catch: you don't necessarily get to keep all those points. In fact, out of every fifteen hundred students taking the SAT, only one will leave the exam room with all of his or her original 2400 points.

You see, the bad news is that every time you leave a question blank or get one wrong, they take away points. Your goal on the SAT is to hang on to as many of your 2400 starting points as possible. How? By leaving the fewest number of questions blank and getting the fewest number of questions wrong.

Got that? Hang on to your points!


Previous:

Next:

  • Developing Good Homework Habits
      Help your child develop good homework habits. That means designating a reg­ular location and time to work on daily assignments. She does not necessarily need a desk in her room; the kitchen table can work just as well. No matter what pla
  • Helping Children Learn About Reading
    Helping Children Learn About Reading Make Connections Why read a book to an infant who does not yet know the meaning of a word -- or of words at all? Why sing to a toddler who cannot understand your song? Both activities help children make connectio
  • Bull's-Eye
    Bulls-EyeTime 15 to 20 minutes Materials Variety of hand-sized spongesBucket of waterChalk Directions Draw a target on outdoor pavement.Soak the sponges in the bucket of water and toss them into the center of the target. Extensions Play until the bu