Digital SAT Supreme Guide

Preparing for the GRE can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're aiming for grad school in the U.S. or abroad, setting the right foundation early on can make all the difference in your score. Here are 7 essential tips to know before you even start your GRE prep journey. 1. Understand the GRE Format Inside Out Before diving into your GRE prep, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the test format. Knowing what to expect will help you strategize your study plan, reduce test-day anxiety, and ultimately perform better. Here's a comprehensive breakdown: Sections: Analytical Writing: Tests your ability to articulate complex ideas, support arguments with reasoning and evidence, and maintain a coherent structure in writing. Verbal Reasoning: Measures your ability to analyze written material, evaluate arguments, and understand the meaning of words and sentences. Quantitative Reasoning: Assesses basic math skills, understanding of elementary concepts, and ability to reason quantitatively. Topics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Timing:  The shorter GRE, launched in September 2023, has a total test time of 1 hour and 58 minutes. Here's the section-wise timing breakdown: This table shows the GRE shorter format with section-wise timing and number of questions for AWA, Verbal, and Quantitative sections. Scoring: Analytical Writing: Scored on a scale of 0–6 Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning: Each scored from 130–170 Why it matters: Knowing the sections and timing allows you to feel prepared and confident going into the exam. 2. Set a Realistic Target Score Effective GRE prep starts with a clear goal. Don’t waste time studying without a target in mind. Here’s how to set a target score that maximizes your chances for success: Research Average Scores for Your Programs: Look up the typical GRE scores of applicants accepted into your desired programs. Each school and program has its own expectations, so tailor your target score accordingly. Set a Score Based on Your Goals: Consider where you want to apply and set a realistic score that will make you a competitive applicant. Download Vibrant’s Goals Worksheet for the GRE and begin tailoring your prep plan for success. × Get your free PDF Enter your email to get instant access to the downloadable PDF. Email address Get PDF Thank you! Click below to download your PDF. Download PDF 3. Take a Diagnostic Test Early Before diving into your GRE prep, take a full-length, timed practice test. This will give you valuable insights into your starting point and help you optimize your study plan from the get-go. ETS offers a free practice test, so there’s no reason not to take advantage of it. Here’s how it helps: Understand Your Baseline Score: A diagnostic test gives you an accurate starting point, so you can see where you stand in terms of your overall score and which sections need the most attention. Build Test-Day Stamina: The GRE is long and mentally taxing. Taking a full-length test early will help you get accustomed to the test duration and help build your endurance for the actual exam day. Expand Your Practice: To continue refining your skills, consider getting a copy of “Practice Tests for the GRE” to access not just 1, but 6 full-length tests. These additional tests provide more opportunities to simulate real test conditions, helping you refine your timing and test-taking strategy. 4. Create a Study Plan Based on Your Timeline A well-structured study plan is the backbone of successful GRE prep. The key is to tailor your plan based on how much time you have before test day.  Choose the Plan That Fits Your Schedule: Vibrant Publishers offers flexible study plans designed to suit different needs and timelines:  This table compares Vibrant Publishers’ 3 GRE study plans by duration, format, description, and ideal learner type. Regardless of the plan you choose, break down your preparation into manageable weekly goals and be sure to allocate time for each section of the GRE. 5. Choose the Right Study Materials There’s no shortage of GRE prep resources, but not all are created equal. A few recommended options include: GRE Verbal Practice Questions: This book focuses specifically on Verbal Reasoning, featuring over 600 questions that strengthen vocabulary, reading comprehension, and sentence equivalence. Emphasis is placed on question-specific strategies and skill development. GRE Quantitative Practice Questions: Aimed at mastering Quantitative Reasoning, this book covers key areas of GRE math, including algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis. Each topic includes step-by-step explanations and varied practice problems to support conceptual understanding and accuracy. Practice Tests for the GRE: This book offers realistic full-length practice tests designed to simulate the real test experience, helping you build test-taking endurance and familiarity with the exam format. ETS Official GRE Guide: This book includes test questions from past exams, as well as comprehensive test-taking strategies. A must-have resource to understand the structure and difficulty level of the GRE. Tip: Don’t over-resource. Pick 2–3 reliable sources and stick with them. 6. Build Test-Taking Endurance The GRE is a mentally demanding test that requires both focus and stamina to complete successfully. It’s important to train your brain to maintain peak performance for the entire duration of the exam. Take Full-Length Mock Tests Regularly: Simulate test day by completing a full-length, timed practice test every 2–3 weeks. This helps you get accustomed to the test’s length and pacing. Mimic Real Test Conditions: Create an environment that mirrors the actual test. No phone, no distractions. No breaks—just like the real GRE. Sit in a quiet, comfortable space to eliminate external interruptions. Review Your Performance Thoroughly: After each mock test, take the time to analyze your results carefully. Identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Focus on time management: Were you rushing through any sections or running out of time? Review missed questions and understand the reasoning behind the correct answers. By training with full-length tests and simulating real test-day conditions, you’ll build the mental stamina and confidence needed to perform your best on the GRE. 7. Plan Your Test Date Wisely Choosing the right test date is a crucial part of your GRE strategy. Don’t wait until the last minute to register—taking the time to secure your preferred date and location will reduce stress as test day approaches. Here’s how to plan smartly: Register Early: Secure your ideal test date and location well in advance. This ensures you get the most convenient option and avoid last-minute scheduling stress. Take the GRE at Least 2–3 Months Before Deadlines: Ideally, you should aim to complete your GRE at least 2–3 months before your application deadlines. This gives you enough time to receive your scores, assess your performance, and plan a retake if necessary. Bonus Tip: Consider scheduling a backup test date. In case your first attempt doesn’t go as planned, a second chance ensures you're not left scrambling to get your scores in time. Start Strong, Finish Stronger The GRE isn’t just a test of intelligence—it’s a test of preparation, strategy, and consistency. By planning ahead, staying focused, and using the right tools, you’re giving yourself the best chance to crush the exam and achieve your desired score. With the right mindset and approach, you’ll be ready to tackle any challenge the GRE throws your way and finish stronger than you started. Your future success begins with the steps you take today—so make them count! GRE® is a trademark registered by ETS, which is not affiliated with and does not endorse these products. More information about the GRE® and ETS is available on their website https://www.ets.org/gre.html. Also read:5 Reasons Why You Should Take GRE Mock TestsGRE Analytical Writing: 8 Tips to Write a Perfect EssayTips for Time Management during the GRE test

The ACT is one of the most important standardized tests for high school students planning to attend college. With the ACT changing, it has become ever more crucial to understand how the ACT scoring system works for setting realistic goals and interpreting your results. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about Enhanced ACT scoring, from the basics to the most frequently asked questions from students. How Enhanced ACT Scoring Works: The Fundamentals The Enhanced ACT (available internationally from September 2025) consists of three required sections: English, Mathematics, and Reading, plus two optional sections: Science and Writing. The four multiple-choice sections are each scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with 36 being the highest possible score. Your composite score is calculated from the three required sections only, even if you take the optional sections. Section-by-Section Breakdown English Section: 50 questions, 35 minutes Tests grammar, usage, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills Raw score converted to scaled score of 1-36 Mathematics Section: 45 questions, 50 minutes Covers algebra, geometry, and trigonometry concepts typically taught through 11th grade Calculator permitted for the entire section Raw score converted to scaled score of 1-36 Reading Section: 36 questions, 40 minutes Four passages from different subjects (literary narrative, social sciences, humanities, natural sciences) Tests reading comprehension and reasoning skills Raw score converted to scaled score of 1-36 Science Section: 40 questions, 40 minutes (OPTIONAL in Enhanced ACT) Tests interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills Does not require extensive science knowledge but focuses on scientific reasoning When taken, contributes to a separate STEM score (combined with Math) but NOT to the composite score Raw score converted to scaled score of 1-36 Writing (Essay) Section: 1 essay, 40 minutes (OPTIONAL in Enhanced ACT) Evaluates key writing skills taught in high school and early college courses Trained readers score your essay across four domains: Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, and Language Use and Conventions Score report on a range of 2-12 The Composite Score: Your Overall ACT Performance The composite score is the most important number on your ACT score report. In the Enhanced ACT format, it represents the average of your three required section scores (English, Math, and Reading), rounded to the nearest whole number. The calculation is straightforward: add up your three section scores and divide by three. For example: English: 28 Math: 26 Reading: 30 Total: 84 ÷ 3 = 28 (Composite Score) Composite score calculation for the Enhanced ACT Important Note: Even if you take the optional Science section, it will NOT be included in your composite score calculation. You’ll receive a separate STEM score that combines your Math and Science scores. Understanding Score Ranges and What They Mean ACT Scores Ranges and Meanings Score Range 1-12 (Below Average) These scores indicate significant academic challenges and suggest the need for substantial preparation before retaking the test. Score Range 13-19 (Below to Average) Scores in this range are below the national average but still acceptable for many colleges, particularly community colleges and less selective four-year institutions. Most colleges have a minimum requirement of 18 or 20 on the ACT, making scores in the upper portion of this range viable for admission to many state universities and regional colleges. Score Range 20-26 (Average to Above Average) The national average composite score was 19.6 in 2024, so scores in this range represent solid performance. Many state universities and regional colleges accept students with these scores. This range opens doors to a wide variety of four-year institutions across the country. Score Range 27-32 (Well Above Average) These scores put students in approximately the top 15% of test-takers and are competitive for admission to selective universities. Students with scores in this range often qualify for merit-based scholarships at many institutions. Score Range 33-36 (Exceptional) Only about 2% of test-takers achieve scores in this range. These scores are competitive for admission to the most selective colleges and universities. For context, Harvard College admits students with ACT scores of 34-36, though Harvard states there are no score cutoffs and they do not admit "by the numbers". Writing Scores (2-12 scale): Score Range 2-5: (Below Average) Indicates significant challenges with writing fundamentals and organization. Score Range 6-7: (Average) Represents typical high school writing performance with room for improvement. Score Range 8-9: (Above Average) Shows strong writing skills with good organization and development. Score Range 10-12: (Exceptional)  Demonstrates excellent writing ability with sophisticated analysis and clear expression. Percentiles: How You Compare to Other Students Understanding percentiles is crucial for interpreting your ACT scores. Your percentile rank tells you what percentage of recent ACT test-takers scored at or below your score level. For instance, if you score a 22 composite, your national rank is approximately 71, meaning 71% of test-takers scored at or below your level. This percentile system helps colleges understand not just your raw performance, but how you stack up against your peers nationally. It's important to note that percentiles can fluctuate slightly from year to year based on the performance of each testing cohort. Frequently Asked Questions from Students "How does superscoring work?" Many colleges practice "superscoring," which means they take your highest score from each section across multiple test dates to create the best possible composite score. Not all colleges superscore, so it's important to check each school's policy. When colleges do superscore, they recalculate your composite based on your best section performances. "What's considered a 'good' ACT score?" This depends entirely on your college goals. The national average is around 19.6, so anything above 20 is above average. However, if you're aiming for selective colleges, you'll typically need scores in the mid-to-high 20s or low 30s. Research the average ACT scores for admitted students at your target schools to set appropriate goals. Examples of college ACT expectations: Highly selective institutions (Harvard, MIT, Stanford): While these schools don't have official cutoffs, admitted students typically score 34-36.  Selective universities: Often look for scores in the 28-32 range State universities: Many accept scores in the 22-28 range Regional colleges: Often accept scores starting around 18-22 Important note: Many top colleges, including Harvard, Yale, Brown, Dartmouth, MIT, Georgetown, and Caltech, are reinstating test requirements between 2025 and 2026, reversing previous test-optional policies. Always check each school's current testing policy, as requirements vary widely by institution. Research the average ACT scores for admitted students at your target schools to set appropriate goals. "How are raw scores converted to scaled scores?" The ACT uses a process called equating to convert raw scores (number of correct answers) to scaled scores (1-36). This process accounts for slight variations in difficulty between different test forms. The conversion isn't always linear – sometimes missing one question might drop you one point, while other times it might not affect your scaled score at all. "Should I take the optional Science section?" This is one of the biggest new questions with the Enhanced ACT. Here are key considerations: Check college requirements: Some colleges may still require or prefer Science scores, while others won't consider them at all STEM programs: If you're applying to science, technology, engineering, or math programs, taking Science can demonstrate your abilities in these areas through the STEM score Strengths and weaknesses: If Science is your strongest section, taking it gives you an additional way to showcase your abilities, even though it won't boost your composite Time and energy: If Science is your weakest area and your target schools don't require it, you might focus preparation time on the three required sections instead "How long should I study to improve my score significantly?" Most students see meaningful improvement within 1-3 months of consistent preparation. The amount of improvement possible depends on your starting score and target score. Students starting with lower scores often see larger point increases than those already scoring in the high 20s or 30s. "Does the essay affect my composite score?" No, the optional ACT Writing test (essay) is scored separately and does not impact your composite score. However, some colleges require the essay, so check your target schools' requirements before deciding whether to take it. Practical Tips for Score Improvement Understanding scoring can inform your test preparation strategy: Focus on accuracy over speed initially: While timing is important, building accuracy first often leads to better long-term score improvements. Consider using section-specific practice materials like ACT English Practice Questions, ACT Math Practice Questions or ACT Reading Practice Questions from Vibrant Publishers to build accuracy in targeted areas with 500-650+ questions per section. Identify your scoring patterns: Use practice tests to determine which question types consistently give you trouble within each section. Take timed practice tests from the official ACT Guide to gauge your scoring patterns but remember to use the tests wisely. Avoid using up all the tests at the start of your preparation. Set realistic goals: Aim for score improvements of 2-4 points per section rather than dramatic jumps that may not be achievable in your timeframe. Consider timing strategies: The ACT is notably time-pressured, so developing efficient approaches to different question types is crucial. Final Thoughts The ACT scoring system, while straightforward in its basic structure, has nuances that can significantly impact your college admissions strategy. Understanding how scores are calculated, what different score ranges mean, and how colleges use these scores will help you set appropriate goals and make informed decisions about test preparation and retaking. Remember that while ACT scores are important, they're just one component of your college application. Focus on achieving scores that align with your target schools' expectations, but don't let test preparation consume all your time at the expense of other important aspects of your high school experience. Whether you're just beginning your ACT journey or looking to improve an existing score, understanding the scoring system puts you in a better position to develop an effective strategy and achieve your goals. Use this knowledge to guide your preparation, set realistic expectations, and make confident decisions about your testing timeline. Recommended Resources: For comprehensive practice aligned with the Enhanced ACT format, consider Vibrant Publishers' ACT preparation series: ACT English Practice Questions (500+ targeted questions)ACT Math Practice Questions (650+ comprehensive problems)ACT Reading Practice Questions (500+ passage-based questions) These resources are specifically designed to help students master the Enhanced ACT format and achieve their target scores through extensive, focused practice. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT Inc. which neither sponsors nor endorses these products. Also read:Changes in the ACT: What’s New in 2025 and How It Compares to the PastExpert Tips to Write an Impressive College Essay + SamplesACT vs SAT: Which test should you take?

The ACT is evolving to provide students with more flexibility, accessibility, and efficiency. Starting in 2025, the test will undergo significant changes to improve the overall testing experience. This comprehensive guide will cover all the new updates, compare them with the previous format, and address common questions. Starting in April 2025, students who choose to test online will have more flexibility and choice, experience a shorter test, and get more time to respond to each question. Beginning with the September 2025 test, all students testing on a Saturday, either online or on paper, will experience these benefits. Schools and districts will have these options starting in spring 2026. Overview of Key Changes in ACT The upcoming changes aim to streamline the testing experience while providing more options for students. Here’s a breakdown of the major updates and how they compare to the previous format: 1. Fewer Questions, Same Challenge Starting in 2025, the ACT will feature a notable reduction in the total number of questions across all sections. The test, long known for its fast pace, is adapting to allow students more time per question. Here's a quick breakdown of the changes: English Section: Reduced from 75 to 50 questions. Math Section: Dropping from 60 to 45 questions. Reading Section: Going from 40 to 36 questions. Science Section (optional): No change; 40 questions 2. Shortened Test Duration One of the most notable changes is the reduction in test duration. The total number of questions will be reduced by 44, cutting down the overall test time from 195 minutes to 125 minutes. This shorter test is designed to reduce fatigue and improve focus, allowing students to complete the exam more efficiently. Previous Format: Up to 195 minutes with five sections (including a separate experimental section). New Format (2025): Reduced to 125 minutes. The experimental questions are now integrated into the scored sections,  eliminating the separate fifth section. Benefit: The shorter test duration reduces fatigue and helps students stay focused throughout the exam. 3. Optional Science Section Previous Format The Science section was mandatory and part of the Composite score. New Format (2025): The Science section becomes optional. Students can choose whether to take it, and the Composite score will only include  English, Math, and Reading. The Science score will be reported separately if taken. Benefit: This change allows students to tailor the test to their academic strengths and career goals, offering flexibility. 4. Fewer Answer Choices in Math Previous Format: Math questions had five answer choices. New Format (2025): Math questions will now have four answer choices. Benefit: Simplifying the decision-making process can reduce the likelihood of guessing and help students focus more on solving the problems. 5. Revised Composite Score Calculation Previous Format: The Composite score was based on English, Math, Reading, and Science. New Format (2025): The Composite score is now calculated using only English, Math, and Reading. If  the Science section is taken, its score will be reported separately. Benefit: This adjustment highlights students’ strengths in core academic areas while providing flexibility in how they approach the test. 6. Increased Time Per Question Previous Format: Time per question was more limited, contributing to a rushed testing experience. New Format (2025): More time is allocated per question across all sections. Benefit: Students can approach each question more thoughtfully, reducing stress and improving accuracy. 7. Optional Writing Section Previous Format: The Writing section was optional but included in the overall testing time if chosen. New Format (2025): The Writing section remains optional, with no changes to its structure or timing. Benefit: Students have the flexibility to decide whether to include the Writing section based on their needs. 8. Integration of Experimental Questions Previous Format: Experimental questions were placed in a separate fifth section, which was unscored. New Format (2025): Experimental questions are now integrated into the scored sections, seamlessly  blended into the test. Benefit: This integration eliminates the need for an extra section, reducing overall test time and improving the flow of the exam. Implementation Timeline: April 2025: The updated format will be available for students choosing to take the ACT online during national test dates in the U.S. September 2025: The changes will apply to all students, including those taking the paper-based test and international test-takers. Spring 2026: Schools and districts will have the option to implement these changes for their students. What’s Not Changing ACT Scale: The score scale remains 1-36. Benchmark Standards: No changes to ACT benchmarks or state-specific achievement standards. Score Reporting: Scores from tests taken prior to the new format will not change. Predictive Validity: The ACT’s ability to predict success in first-year college courses remains unchanged. Testing Formats: Both paper-and-pencil and online testing options will continue to be available. Old vs. New ACT Format Enhanced Features of the Online Testing Platform In addition to these changes, the online testing platform introduces several new tools and features to improve the test-taking experience: Answer Elimination Tool The Answer Elimination Tool on the ACT online test is designed to help test-takers eliminate incorrect answer choices during the multiple-choice sections, improving the chances of selecting the correct answer. Answer Masking Tool The Answer Masking Tool is designed to help students focus more effectively on the question itself by hiding the answer choices. Scientific Calculator The Scientific Calculator is a built-in tool available for use in the Math section. It is designed to assist test-takers in solving more complex mathematical problems that require advanced functions. Highlighter Tool The Highlighter Tool is a feature designed to help students emphasize key information in the test content, particularly in reading and passage-based questions. Line Reader Tool The Line Reader Tool is designed to assist students in focusing on one line of text at a time, helping them stay organized and avoid distractions. This tool is particularly useful for students with reading difficulties or those who benefit from visual tracking support. Magnifier Tool The Magnifier Tool is an accessibility feature designed to assist students who may have visual impairments or those who need to zoom in on specific parts of the test to see the content more clearly. Text-to-Speech Tool The Text-to-Speech Tool is an accessibility feature that reads the test content aloud to students, providing an auditory option for those who may benefit from listening to the text rather than reading it visually. This tool is especially useful for students with visual impairments, learning disabilities, or those who struggle with reading comprehension. Time Remaining Indicator The Time Remaining Indicator is a crucial feature on the ACT online test that helps students keep track of the time left to complete their test. Mark for Review The Mark for Review feature allows students to flag questions that they want to revisit later during the test. Contrast Tool The Contrast Tool on the ACT online test is an accessibility feature that helps improve readability for students with visual impairments or those who have difficulty distinguishing between text and background colors. FAQs About the ACT Changes 1. Who should take the Science section? Students aiming for STEM fields or planning to take science courses in college should consider taking the Science section. It allows them to demonstrate their proficiency in scientific reasoning and data interpretation. 2. How will the composite score be calculated? The Composite score will now be calculated using the English, Math, and Reading sections only. If students choose to take the Science section, its score will be reported separately. 3. What about superscoring? Starting April 2025, Superscoring will include the highest scores from English, Math, and Reading. This method ensures that students' best performances are reflected in their Composite score. 4. How will experimental questions affect the test? Experimental questions will be integrated into the scored sections, but they will not impact a student's score. These questions are used to test future exam content. 5. Will scores be delivered in the same timeframe? Yes, score delivery will remain within the usual two-to-eight-week window. Students can expect their results in the same timely manner as before. 6. Is the Writing section still optional? Yes, the Writing section remains optional. Students can choose to take it based on their college application requirements or personal preference. 7. Will there be new test prep materials? New practice tests and preparation materials aligned with the updated format will be available by early 2025. Current materials still provide valuable preparation as the core knowledge and skills assessed by the ACT remain unchanged. Conclusion: Why These Changes Matter The ACT’s new enhancements are designed to create a more flexible, accessible, and efficient testing experience. By reducing the overall test length, providing more time per question, and offering optional sections, the ACT is tailoring the test to better meet the needs of today's diverse student population. These updates ensure that students can showcase their abilities in a supportive environment, paving the way for academic and career success. Whether opting for the online format or sticking with traditional paper testing, these changes reflect the ACT’s commitment to evolving with the educational landscape. Related blogs: ACT vs SAT: Which test should you take?Overview of ACTDigital SAT Scoring Decoded: Scoring, Parameters, and Tips to Improve Your Score

Since the digitization of the SAT, the scoring system has become unpredictable and students beat their heads to find out where they went wrong (or right). In this blog, we will explore the mechanics behind the process of scoring, the parameters that the College Board uses to evaluate a test, and also look at some tips to improve your score. The Digital SAT (or SAT) consists of 2 sections called the Reading and Writing (R&W) and Math sections. Each section has 2 modules: the first one is an assortment of easy, medium, and hard questions and the second one includes easy or difficult questions as per a student’s performance in the first module. How a student performs in the first module decides the difficulty level of the next module. For example, if a student performs well on Module 1, the next module will be relatively difficult. College Board has adopted this Multistage Adaptive Testing (MST) model to ensure a fair testing experience for students across all knowledge levels so that every student gets an equal chance to score high and ultimately, get admission into their dream college. Both sections are scored on a scale of 200-800 with the whole test being scored on a scale of 400-1600. Test takers usually aim for a score above 1500 to secure admission to the college of their choice. To score 1500+ on the test, an average score of 750 must be secured for both sections. Of course, these are idealistic conditions and every student has his/her strengths and weaknesses. A student may find the R&W section a no-brainer but may struggle in the Math section and vice versa. The key to scoring a 1500+ is to leverage your strengths and improve on your weaknesses. Read more on how to do this in the Tips section. The College Board has set up a benchmark for both sections. These benchmarks indicate a student’s preparedness for college. If a student scores 480 on the R&W section and 530 on the Math section, he/she is ready for the first year in a credit-bearing college. In short, the benchmarks indicate whether a student is college-ready or needs more practice. Scoring Parameters College Board has provided some parameters upon which a student’s test is scored. Each question is worth 1 point and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. Correct or incorrect answers: The most basic parameter is the correctness of your answers. If your answer is incorrect, you lose marks. Difficulty level of questions: All questions are assigned a difficulty level (easy, medium, and hard). Some questions are attributed for their higher difficulty and hence, hold more weightage than other questions. If you get these questions correct, your chance of a high score increases. You cannot know which question holds more weight so it’s better to answer all the questions even if you don’t know the correct answer. Content-based benchmarks: Both sections test a range of college-readiness skills. The R&W section tests vocabulary, inferencing, information synthesizing, and some quantitative data interpretation skills. The Math section tests the student across the domains of Algebra, Geometry, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Advanced Math. Both sections are attributed certain benchmarks (unknown to us) to assess whether a student is ready for college and that affects your score. The score table given below indicates how much you can score after your raw score is converted into a scaled score. PLEASE NOTE: This table does not reflect the College Board’s scoring system in any way and is only a simpler way to assess yourself. Read your scorecard The SAT scorecard includes the scores of both sections, a total score, percentiles, and performance review across domains. Here’s how you can read and make the most out of your scorecard.  Percentiles On the above scorecard, you will notice a percentile given beside each section score and total score. An 87th percentile in the Reading and Writing section means that the student has scored more than or equal to 87% of students who took the SAT in the last 3 years. Similarly, the student scored more than or equal to 65% of students who took the SAT in the previous 3 years. If you have appeared for the SAT multiple times, the scorecard can be a good indication of your strengths and weaknesses. The SAT tests students across four domains in each section: We can quickly analyze from the scorecard that the student’s strength lies in the R&W section but he/she needs more practice in the Math section to reach the benchmark of 530 or more. One can even focus on each domain to figure out which area to work on (this student needs the most practice in Algebra and Problem Solving and Data Analysis domains) while which domains can be paid less attention to (in this case, Craft and Structure). 5 Tips to Improve Your Score and Get into Your Desired College Here are some simple yet effective tips to increase your score for the Digital SAT. While you may have heard these tips a million times, following them consistently and diligently is the only way to achieve your desired score. 1. Expose yourself to a plethora of questions Exposing yourself to a plethora of questions will improve your reading comprehension skills and train your mind to find patterns. SAT questions are not rocket science—all questions have a certain logic and you just need to solve them many times to crack it. You will also become familiar with the language SAT uses and how it creates options and distractors to trap you. Besides the six practice tests that College Board has provided, you can practice with Vibrant’s 2000+ practice questions. 2. Find out your weak points and attack them By taking a simple diagnostic test you can find out your weak areas and create a study plan to practice. If your weak point is Advanced Math (which makes up 35% of the Math section), solve questions in that domain every day for 2 hours. Practicing every day will remove your fear of the question type and increase your chances of scoring high on that section. 3. Read pieces with a complex structure Reading passages/pieces with complex sentence structures and difficult vocabulary will improve your reading comprehension skills. While SAT passages will not have college-level vocabulary and complexity, they will test you on your college readiness. To be college-ready, you need to showcase higher comprehension skills which you can develop by reading news, literature, opinions, science articles, experiments, etc. Some websites to add to your daily reading are ScienceDaily, The New Yorker, Longform, and Longreads. 4. Take a practice test every week Practice tests are a great way to get accustomed to the test. You become aware of the sequence of questions (Words in Context questions are always asked first) which can help you plan the way you want to appear for the real test. If you wish to solve questions that you find difficult at the beginning, you can directly jump to them and get done with them. Practice tests also make you confident for the real test and leave no surprises for the end. Take timed practice tests at least once a week so that you can adjust your speed and know which areas to work on for the next one. Vibrant’s new book Digital SAT Practice Tests: 900+ SAT Practice Questions gives you just the practice you need. The book includes 5 in-book practice tests, 1 online adaptive test, and 1 diagnostic test. Each in-book test has 3 modules for each section as opposed to 2 modules. Additionally, College Board provides a bunch of free tests on their website to familiarize test takers with the layout of the Bluebook App and assess their test readiness. Besides these tests, Vibrant’s Online Mock Tests are a replica of the Bluebook App and are designed just like the real test. With adaptive modules, the Mock Tests are good for the extra practice you need before test day. 5. Answer all questions As mentioned before, answer all questions regardless of whether you know the correct answer. This increases your probability of getting a question correct rather than not attempting it. In conclusion, understanding the scoring system of the Digital SAT is tricky. Thus, follow the tips given above to increase your chances of a high score to get admitted to your dream college. Related blogs: Boost Your Digital SAT Reading and Writing Score: 8 Proven Tips with Examples  How Vibrant’s Digital SAT Books Can Help Tutors All Questions Answered About The Digital SAT®

To understand how to write a good and impressive college essay, you first need to understand what a college essay is. A college essay is a 650-word (or less) long essay that Admissions Officers need to evaluate if you are a good fit for their college. It is not an essay on a social problem or your opinion about the current crisis plaguing the world. It is an essay about yourself. But mind you that you don’t merely have to list down your achievements and your interests; you have to put your personality on the page.  Dr. Aimee Weinstein’s Writing Impressive College Essays: Includes Strategies and Essays That Really Work is an extremely useful and convenient guide to learning how to write good main essays and supplemental essays. The book’s conversational tone and step-by-step teaching process make it stand out from the plethora of guidebooks already available in the market. The tips included in this blog are part of this book. In this blog, we will only be discussing the main essay and the prompts that are provided on the Common App. Below is a list of prompts provided on the Common App for 2022-23. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more? Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. Notice that all these essays ask you to either share an interesting story, a topic that captivates you, an accomplishment or failure, or a realization that dawned upon you. They are always about you and your learnings and passions in life.    Expert tips to craft an impressive college essay Dig deeper to find your story Your college essay should provide a glimpse into your life for the Admissions officers. You can choose any prompt from the ones listed above but you first need to understand what the prompt is actually asking you to write. If you are choosing the second prompt, you need to ask yourself — “What is a major challenge that I faced and overcame?” “How did I overcome it?” “What did I learn from it?” Remember, it does not suffice to just write down the challenge because that is not what the Admissions officers want to read. They want to know how you overcame the obstacle and moved ahead.  You can find many such brainstorming questions in Writing Impressive College Essays which has a separate chapter entirely dedicated to it.   Always show, don’t tell : Example #1 : The tires of our bus blew winds of dry mud in the air. I distinctly remember two women walking barefoot in the scorching heat when we couldn’t even step down from our air-conditioned bus.  Example #2 : Our bus entered the rural village where we saw women and children roaming in the heat.  Which example is more effective? Which one paints a distinct picture of the scenario?  The first example is an ideal ‘show, don’t tell’ piece of writing where dry winds and walking barefoot in the scorching heat pop out and create a vivid picture.  Use adjectives and illustrate your story instead of stating things as a matter of fact like in Example #2.   Fill your page, then edit The 650-words limit is a cramped space to put forth your thoughts and story. Instead of writing the essay in the word limit, you can keep writing it until you’re done. Then, you can edit it and remove the unnecessary details and keep only the important ones.  Write your rough draft in a Word or Google doc and make the necessary edits there. After you have trimmed it to the specified word limit, copy and paste it into the box given on the website. You can also use tools like Grammarly to check and correct grammatical errors.    Read samples Sample essays are a great learning resource to compare your own essay with and learn the show-don’t-tell skill. Comparing your essay does not mean that someone else’s essay may be better than yours; everyone’s story is unique and therefore, cannot be compared. But sample essays will help you in comparing whether your essay is attention-grabbing and whether it conveys your true intentions. You can find eleven complete and original essays in Writing Impressive College Essays. These essays are written by Dr. Weinstein’s students who have got admission into prestigious colleges. Read a sample essay from the Writing Impressive College Essays book here. A Story About a Religious “Home” Effort, Gratification, Compassion As dawn breaks, I pull open a heavy, wooden door and walk down the stone floor of a dim hallway. The sound of steel and glass clinking together on a wobbling cart rolling through each hallway is one of the only sounds in a calm, quiet church. Another thick door swings open, and a bright light instantly illuminates a small kitchen. An assortment of bread is sorted onto a beautiful, shining silver dish and grape juice is squeezed into tiny clear glasses the size of one’s palm. I fill the stone goblets with more grape juice and I place a giant bread loaf onto another illustrious plate. These items crowd the cart as it wobbles into a massive, bright sanctuary filled with the angelic voices of the choir. I carefully assort this army of dishes and plates onto a table. I step back down the stoned floor and look up at the stained glass with Jesus looking down onto the table, feeling like I have accomplished something. Communion is ready for serving. Since first grade, I have done this bimonthly.  Preparing communion is not the only activity I have participated in at church. The congregation took notice of my effort, work and involvement. Two years ago they appointed me to be the youth elder on the Session, the church’s governing board. Serving as youth elder is an honor for me because I am serving the congregation. Adrenaline rushes into me every time I walk into the monthly meetings because I feel obligated to speak up for those in the congregation who are unable to be heard and strive to make the church a better place. For example, improving church safety and making plans to prevent mass shootings are things I consistently advocate for even when unease fills the room at the mention of the topics. As the only student present on Session, being around adults is something I learn from and enjoy. Persevering, working hard and being compassionate to others are things they taught me. Persistently advocating for issues during Session meetings, working hard to fix them and being positive have contributed to my maturity due to those interactions.  These experiences at church have prepared me for life outside of it as well. I am known for having a calm, kind and empathetic personality. Many people have come to me for help or advice, something that is a privilege because not everyone gains that level of trust. I remember sitting in a small group with a school counselor in a cozy, small room when someone shared a rough experience at home. I calmly spoke to her about it and tried to give her advice about what to do. For a while I remember the student consistently thanking me, because the advice I gave eased her situation. I am glad I impacted someone’s life in that way.  Church is where I feel at home. Few things are more relaxing than preparing communion, which taught me how to pay attention to detail and to be thorough. Being on the Session made me a self starter with a great work ethic. I plan to continue to employ this work ethic and I intend to bring the same positive attitude, sincerity and effort in the future and in whatever capacity I serve my community, so that I make a good impact.  Also read: ACT vs SAT: Which test should you take? Digital SAT - All You Need To Know About It All Questions Answered About The Digital SAT®

Want to score a perfect 800 on the SAT Reading & Writing section? The SAT Reading & Writing section can be one of the most challenging parts of the test, as it tests critical reading, grammar, and reasoning skills to determine if you're college-ready. But here’s the good news: scoring well—even a perfect 800—is absolutely achievable! If you find yourself struggling to infer information from a passage, feeling lost among the countless grammar rules, or having trouble identifying the main idea, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll guide you through some proven strategies and tips to help you boost your SAT Reading & Writing score and move closer to that perfect 800.. But first, let’s understand some basics of the Reading and Writing section.   Question Types on the Digital SAT Reading + Writing Section:     The passages in the SAT Reading & Writing section are concise compared to the predecessor paper-and-pencil test, thanks to the discrete format of questions. The skills on which the students are tested have also undergone changes as the Digital SAT is more concerned with evaluating the reasoning and analytical abilities of students. The Reading & Writing section tests students in four domains: Information and Ideas, Craft and Structure, Expression of Ideas, and Standard English Conventions. But you don’t need to remember or focus on any of this information. What you do need to acquaint yourself with is the question types asked under each domain because you will be preparing to solve these questions. Information and Ideas: In this domain, the questions are based on the central idea of the passage given. This domain is further divided into three areas in which you will be tested.  Central Ideas and Details: This question type is divided into two types: Central Idea questions and Details questions. Central Idea questions will ask you to identify the main idea of a text, that is simply, what is the passage’s main topic. The main idea can be determined by choosing an option that summarizes the text most optimally. Details questions will ask you to identify a fact about a certain detail in the passage. Command of Evidence (Textual and Quantitative): Command of Evidence (Textual) questions will provide a (mostly) science-based passage and the question might ask you to choose an option that supports or refutes the claim or conclusion made in the passage. Quantitative questions will provide a graph/quantitative data in a table and a passage accompanying it. Here, you may have to choose an option to complete the last sentence of the passage or select a statement that supports or undermines the claim or conclusion made in the passage with the help of the given data. These questions test your ability to interpret data or textual evidence to answer questions. Inferences: Inference passages will present an experiment or facts about some phenomenon and the questions will ask you to choose the option that best concludes the passage. The conclusion should be the most plausible one supported by the facts from the passage. Craft and Structure: Craft and Structure questions test your ability to answer in-context questions, analyze the structure of a passage, and make reasonable connections between two texts. These questions are all about understanding the information in the passage and using your English language skills to answer questions. This domain asks questions from three areas: Words in Context: Words in Context questions are asked in two ways: one is where you will have to fill in a blank with the most appropriate choice and the second is where you will have to choose a word from the options that is most similar in meaning to an underlined word in the passage based on the context of the passage. Text Structure and Purpose: You will either be asked to select the main purpose of the text, select a choice that best describes the structure of the text, or state the function of an underlined text in a passage. Do not get confused between main idea questions and purpose questions. Purpose questions ask you the purpose or “why” a passage is written while main idea questions ask the main topic of the text. Recognizing the function of an underlined text means recognizing what role that sentence plays in the passage and structure questions need you to recognize how information in the passage is arranged. Cross-Text Connections: You will be given two texts – Text 1 and Text 2 – that discuss a similar topic. You will then be asked questions on the response of the author of Text 2 to the arguments/information provided in Text 1. Expression of Ideas: For questions in the domain, you will use your revision skills to improve the effectiveness of a written text or passage. This domain tests two skills: Rhetorical Synthesis: Rhetorical Synthesis questions test your synthesizing skills i.e. how well you pick and combine information to answer a specific question. You will be given some notes taken by a student on a particular topic and will need to answer a question synthesizing information from the notes. Transitions: Transitions questions require you to insert the most appropriate transition word that connects two sentences or phrases. Standard English Conventions: These questions will test your grammatical and editing skills. You will mainly play around with sentence structure, usage, and punctuation. The questions test the following areas: Boundaries: For Boundaries questions, you have to fill a blank with the most appropriate answer choice with the correct punctuation. Form, structure, and sense: Here, you will encounter several types of questions that test your sentence construction skills. Some areas that these questions test are plurals and possessives, subject-verb agreement, pronoun-antecedent agreement, verb forms, and subject-modifier placement. Now that you have a basic idea of what you are going to encounter in the questions, let’s dive into some tips that will help you solve the SAT Reading & Writing questions easily.   Digital SAT Reading + Writing Tips:   1. Learn to identify the context and the main theme in a passage: Almost all questions on the Digital SAT are based on context. Even questions that require you to choose the correct punctuation mark require context. Therefore, practice recognizing the context and the main theme in all texts that you read. The main theme is usually the subject that is being discussed and you can easily identify it. Look for the subject that is being described, criticized, or expanded upon. For example, read this passage picked from Jane Austen’s novel, Sense and Sensibility. Elinor, this eldest daughter, whose advice was so effectual, possessed a strength of understanding, and coolness of judgment, which qualified her, though only nineteen, to be the counsellor of her mother, and enabled her frequently to counteract, to the advantage of them all, that eagerness of mind in Mrs. Dashwood which must generally have led to imprudence. She had an excellent heart;—her disposition was affectionate, and her feelings were strong; but she knew how to govern them: it was a knowledge which her mother had yet to learn; and which one of her sisters had resolved never to be taught. This passage describes Elinor’s qualities of coolness of judgment, her affectionate nature from a young age, and her maturity which led her to advise her mother on household matters. Thus, it can be said that the main theme of the passage is to expand upon Elinor’s maturity at a young age. 2. Recognize the question stems to answer questions quickly: SAT Reading & Writing questions have a pattern of question stems that they follow. For example, for Central Ideas and Details questions, the question stem is usually “What is the main idea of the text?” or “Which choice best states the main idea of the text?” Studying and learning to recognize question stems can help you avoid confusion between similar types of questions. Questions for Text Structure and Purpose questions ask questions like “Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?” which can be confusing at times as you may think it is asking for the central idea of the passage. 3. Work on your vocabulary: Though SAT tests your analytical and reasoning abilities, it also requires you to have a working knowledge of the English language. You need to have a strong vocabulary to answer the Reading & Writing questions. You can improve your vocabulary by reading books on diverse topics, articles, science journals, blogs, etc. Though reading fictional novels is a good way to enhance your vocabulary, reading nonfiction pieces will also greatly help you crack the SAT. How and why you ask? Because the Digital SAT does not only focus on literature; it includes passages from a variety of domains like science, history, social studies, etc. So, cultivate a habit of reading informative blogs, statistical reports, historical pieces, etc, to exercise your reasoning and analytical abilities. 4. Brush up on your grammar rules: Apart from working on developing a good vocabulary, brush up on your basic grammar rules. This does not mean that you learn intricate grammatical rules that can even confuse a good writer. You just need to revisit and be thorough on your school lessons on different parts of speech, tenses, verb forms, punctuation, sentence structures, etc. Knowing basic grammar rules will help you to quickly answer questions related to grammar and structure as you will recognize the correct option at a glance. 5. Avoid choices that include extreme words: To trick the student, SAT uses extreme words in the options that might not be used in the passage. For example, a passage mentions that there is a traffic jam on the National Highway most of the time in a week while an option could say something like: The National Highway is always packed with traffic. The use of an extreme word like “always” suggests that the highway is filled with traffic all the time while the passage only mentions that there is a traffic jam on the highway “most of the time” but not “always”. Find tips like these in Vibrant’s newly launched book, Digital SAT Supreme Guide which is a complete guide for SAT test takers. It includes detailed concept explanations, strategies and tips to solve questions, drill questions to practice, and two full-length tests. 6. Beware of transition words: Many times, to confuse the reader, a passage may start with a particular view but in between, the author proposes an opposing view to the idea by using transition words like “on the contrary”, “however”, “on the other hand”. This change in the passage often goes unnoticed and the reader might confuse the main theme of the passage with the one expressing the initial view. To answer most of the SAT questions, you need to actively think and look for clues that indicate what the passage is pointing at. 7. Don’t assume: A common error that students commit while solving SAT Reading & Writing questions is that they forget that they won’t require any outside information to answer questions. An answer choice may seem possible but look closer to check if it includes facts given in the passage. If not, eliminate that choice. 8. Practice, practice, practice: All these tips are not useful if you don’t put them into practice. Getting a lot of practice trains your brain to spot the correct answer faster. Vibrant Publishers’ Digital SAT Resources are a whole package that will give you more than enough practice by exposing you to a variety of questions that are exactly like the actual SAT. Our resources have a bank of 2000+ questions on Reading & Writing and Math that will help you reach the perfect score and get into the college of your choice. Find a broad range of practice questions on the different domains and question types in the Digital SAT Reading and Writing Practice Questions book.  Practice using a pool of 300+ math questions from the Digital SAT Math Practice Questions book.  Attempt five full-length practice tests in the modular format from the Practice Tests For The Digital SAT book.   Join our WhatsApp group to get access to free practice questions daily        Also read - All Questions Answered About The Digital SAT® Check out the Digital SAT Crash Course.

The digital SAT has caused a stir among students preparing for it and also among tutors/teachers helping them prepare for it. The new SAT will now be a Multi-stage Adaptive Test with two modules per section. Though the Math section remains pretty much the same (except that calculators are now allowed for the entire section), the Verbal section has changed a lot. It will only have one section called the Reading and Writing section and instead of long passages with multiple corresponding questions, it will have short and discreet passages and questions. You can read an extensive explanation of the changed testing pattern and specifications here. With the SAT going digital outside the US in 2023, there was a dearth of practice resources for students and tutors. So, Vibrant Publishers released the first-ever digital SAT practice resources: Practice Tests For The Digital SAT, Digital SAT Reading and Writing Practice Questions, Digital SAT Math Practice Questions, Mock Test #1, and Mock Test #2. These resources compile 1000+ practice questions, answer explanations, and distractor explanations for the Reading and Writing and Math sections. Along with these resources, Vibrant Publishers is adding a new book – Digital SAT Supreme Guide – to an already vast expanse of resources for the Digital SAT. The book is an all-inclusive guide for students and tutors alike. The book is filled with lucid explanations, ample practice drills, full-length tests, and much more. Request the Advance Review Copy of the book on Netgalley to have an early look at the book. The book is going to be out in September 2024! If you’re a tutor, these resources will be assets in preparing your pupils for the new test. Read on to find out how you can make the most out of them.   Instruct and Inform Before beginning to gear up your students for the digital SAT, you may need to explain to them the new MST model, various question domains for the Reading and Writing and Math sections, go still deeper to explain each skill/knowledge (sub-categories in the domains), and the tests’ other features. For this, you can use the dedicated introductory chapters in each book to give your students a thorough understanding of the digital SAT. You can elaborate on each question type with a supporting sample question too. This extensive explanation will lay a strong foundation for further teaching.   Give Comprehensive Practice With a huge bank of 1000+ practice questions at your disposal, you can give comprehensive practice to your students. These questions can be used in different ways to cater to different needs – as model and practice questions for teaching a particular topic, for curating specialized tests, for giving module-wise practice tests from Practice Tests For The Digital SAT, and even for using them as home assignments.   Use Questions for Structured Practice The two practice questions books can be used to practice each question type asked in the Reading and Writing and Math sections of the new test. These resources will enable you to give a structured practice to your students. The explanations for the correct as well as incorrect choices can be used to elaborate on how to arrive at the right answer and eliminate the wrong ones.The difficulty-wise segregation is also a plus point if you want to first give practice of easy questions and then slowly move on to medium and difficult ones.    Test with Full-length Mock Tests After finishing the practice phase, instill confidence in your students with five full-length practice tests that are replicas of the real SAT. Providing practice tests will reveal a student’s weak areas and will give them a chance to work on and improve them. The full-length Mock Tests can be utilized when the test day is near. For these Mock Tests, you can time your students and encourage them to complete the tests within the specified time limit of the digital SAT. The tests will also reinforce the teachings and give an authentic testing experience.  Happy Teaching!   Join our WhatsApp group to get access to free practice questions daily