By Laura Whitmore
As the October SAT approaches, many are eager to know what might appear on the test. After years of working closely with students and watching how the SAT evolves, I’ve noticed a few patterns. Predicting exactly what will be on the test can feel like aiming at a moving target, but I’ve compiled some key insights based on recent exams. These predictions can help you or your student focus on the areas that are most likely to appear on the test!
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SAT English Predictions
1. Watch for Transition Word Questions in English
One thing that has shown up consistently is questions involving shifting transition words. This type of question requires you to decide where a transition word belongs—either before or after punctuation. The key to solving these is to first find your complete sentences. It is crucial to understand that wherever the transition word is placed, it is relating to the sentence before it.
Tip: When you see a transition word in the answer choices, try ignoring it at first and focus on whether the sentences on either side are complete. Once you know they are, you'll have a better sense of where the transition word should go.
2. Comma Placement Questions Involving Names in English
A common question on the English section involves comma placement, especially around names and descriptions. The rule is simple: if the description comes before the name, no commas are needed. If the description comes after the name, you need commas because it’s considered non-essential information.
Tip: If you’re stuck on a comma placement question, choose the option with fewer commas. SAT writers often include unnecessary punctuation to trip you up, so less is usually more.
3. Note-Taking Questions in English
Another prediction for English is note-taking questions that involve reading bullet points. Many students expect these to be quick and easy, but they require careful reading, especially when multiple answers seem correct. If you notice that two or three answer choices could work, it’s a signal that you need to double-check the bullet points.
Tip: Try answering the question without looking at the bullet points first. If you’re confident in your answer, you may not need to fact-check. If you’re uncertain, go back and check the details carefully.
4. Vocabulary Words You Might Not Know in English
Every now and then, the SAT includes a few less familiar vocabulary words in their questions. One word I wouldn’t be surprised to see again is "paucity." It means “a lack of” or “scarcity” and is a great example of a word that tends to repeat on the SAT.
Tip: If you come across vocabulary that you don’t know, start building a list of words and definitions as part of your study routine. Familiarity with these recurring words can give you an edge.
5. Independent Clauses in English
Another recurring pattern involves sneaky independent clauses. When presented with multiple punctuation options, the correct answer is often the one that can separate two independent clauses. Make sure you can identify whether both parts of the sentence are complete thoughts.
Tip: If you’re unsure, pick the answer choice that looks different. If only one option separates two independent clauses with a semicolon or period, it’s often the correct one.
SAT Math Predictions
1. Expect No-Solution Equations in Math
Lately, no-solution equations have been popping up more frequently. These are equations where, after simplifying, you end up with something like "0 = 52," which is obviously never true. The trick here is to recognize when the variables cancel each other out, leaving you with an equation that has no possible solution.
Tip: Focus on the coefficients of your variables and look for situations where they are additive inverses. This ensures the variables cancel out, leaving no solution.
2. Percent Increase and Decrease Questions in Math
You’ll almost certainly see percentage questions, particularly involving increases or decreases. One thing that often confuses students is how to handle large percentage increases. For example, if something is said to increase by 600%, you’re actually multiplying the original amount by 700% (100% + 600%).
Tip: Pay close attention to whether the question asks for an increase or simply states a percent of a number. Understanding this distinction will save you from simple errors.
3. Exponential Function Questions in Math
Exponential functions have been a bit trickier lately. You’ll need to understand the components of the function and interpret them correctly. For example, if a problem says the population increases by 4% every few months, you’ll need to know where to plug that percentage into the equation and how to calculate the time frame.
Tip: Make sure you know how to manipulate exponents and interpret what the function is asking, particularly when it comes to growth rates.
4. Using Nonlinear Regression in Math
One of the trickiest math predictions I have is that you may need to use nonlinear regression to solve certain problems. These problems typically provide you with two points and the equation of a function, and your task is to solve for a missing variable.
Tip: Instead of solving these problems manually, using a graphing calculator or a tool like Desmos can save you a lot of time and stress.
5. Standard Deviation Questions in Math
Lastly, I’ve noticed more questions about standard deviation, especially following the August test. Standard deviation measures how spread out data points are. If a question asks what would decrease the standard deviation, remember that the data points need to be more concentrated, not spread out.
Tip: Choose values closer to the middle of the data set to decrease the standard deviation. Spreading the data out increases deviation, so avoid those options.
If you’re looking for a convenient way to practice these concepts before the test, I highly recommend using Preptly, our mobile SAT prep app. With over a thousand unique questions and customizable flashcards, it’s the perfect tool for last-minute prep. Plus, if you’re struggling with timing, Preptly has pacing quizzes to help you work on speed.
Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to boost your score, remember that practice and preparation are key.
Happy prepping!
