What is the SAT exam duration?

The SAT lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes for the main sections (EBRW and Math) in the 2026 digital format, excluding an extra break of 10 minutes.

Is the SAT exam pattern different from the ACT exam pattern?

Yes, the SAT focuses more on reasoning and problem-solving, while the ACT is faster-paced and includes an additional Science section.

Can I use a calculator during the SAT Math section?

Yes, calculators are allowed in the SAT Math section, and students can also use the built-in digital calculator for most questions.

Does the new SAT pattern include an essay section?

No, the new digital SAT does not include an essay section, as it has been permanently discontinued by the College Board.

Is there a negative marking in the SAT?

No, the SAT does not deduct marks for wrong answers, so it’s beneficial to attempt every question.

What are the total marks of the SAT exam?

The SAT is scored on a total of 400-1600 points, with each main section (EBRW and Math) contributing 200-800 points.

Does the new SAT pattern include any specific subject tests?

No, the new SAT pattern does not include Subject Tests, as the College Board discontinued SAT Subject Tests in 2021.

SAT Exam Pattern 2026: Check Section-wise SAT Paper Pattern

The SAT exam evaluates how well you can apply reading, writing, and mathematical skills to assess whether you’re prepared for the academic demands of undergraduate studies. Want a smart head start? Understanding the SAT exam pattern is your first cheat code.

Key Highlights:

The SAT exam pattern consists of 2 main sections: Reading & Writing and Math.
The SAT is scored out of a maximum of 1600. The two sections, Reading & Writing and Math, are each graded on a scale of 800.
The exam lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes in total, excluding a 10-minute break between test sections.
There is no negative marking in the SAT, so incorrect answers do not lead to score deductions.
The SAT follows an adaptive format, where the difficulty level changes with every module based on your performance.

SAT Exam Pattern 2026

The SAT Exam is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the modules depends on your performance in the previous one. SAT Exam modules cover two main sections i.e Reading and Writing and Maths.The optional essay section has been discontinued and does not count toward the total score

Thе tablе bеlow summarizеs thе basic exam structurе of thе SAT in 2026:

Parameter	SAT Digital Reading and Writing (RW)	SAT Digital Math Section
No of questions	54	44
Time allocated	64 mins (32 minutes for each module)	70 mins (35 minutes for each module)
Time per Question	Approximately 75 seconds	Approximately 95 seconds
Format	Two Modules: Reading & Writing are tested across two timed modules separately	Two Modules: Math is conducted in two separately timed modules.
Total operational and pretest questions	1st module: 25 operational questions 2 pretest questions 2nd module: 25 operational questions 2 pretest questions	1st module: 20 operational questions 2 pretest questions 2nd module: 20 operational questions 2 pretest questions
Difficulty Level ()Adaptive Format)	1st Module: Easy-Medium; 2nd Module: Medium-Hard	1st Module: Easy-Medium; 2nd Module: Medium-Hard
Question Types	MCQs (with 4 options)	MCQ (75%) and student-produced response (25%)
Key Skills Tested	Reading comprehension, vocabulary in context, grammar & usage, textual evidence, rhetorical & analytical reasoning	Mathematical reasoning, algebraic problem-solving, data interpretation, geometry/trigonometry, applied math in real contexts

SAT Section-Wise Exam Pattern 2026

The section-wise exam pattern of SAT can help you plan your studies, manage time efficiently, and focus on the areas that matter most. The positive aspect is that there is no negative marking, and you can attempt as many questions as you can.

Let’s dive into a detailed section-wise analysis of the SAT exam to make your prep more targeted and strategic.

SAT Rеading and Writing Section

The Reading and Writing section evaluates your reading comprehension, grammar, and language skills. The test includes passages from literature, history/social studies, science, and humanities.

Here are the types of questions you will be asked in the SAT Digital Reading and Writing (EBRW)Section:

Types of Questions	Number of Questions	Weightage	Skill / Knowledge Tested
Craft and Structure	13–15	28%	Words in context, cross-text comparisons, text structure and purpose, connections
Information and Ideas	12–14	26%	Command of evidence from textual & quantitative data, inferences, central ideas, and details
Expression of Ideas	8–12	20%	Rhetorical synthesis, transitions, clarit,y and organisation of ideas
Standard English Conventions	11–15	26%	Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and writing conventions

SAT Math Section

The Math section of the SAT Exam assesses your problem-solving, algebraic reasoning, and data analysis skills. The questions test your ability to interpret data, work with equations, analyse word problems, and apply mathematical reasoning to real-world scenarios

Here are the types of questions you will be asked inthe SAT Digital Maths Section:

Type of Questions	Question Distribution	Weightage	Skill / Knowledge Testing Areas
Algebra	13–15	35%	Solving linear and nonlinear equations, systems of equations, and equivalent expressions
Advanced Math	13–15	35%	Manipulating complex equations and functions, working with polynomials, and applying advanced algebraic concepts
Problem-Solving & Data Analysis	5–7	15%	Understanding ratios, percentages, rates, proportional relationships, data interpretation, and scatter plots
Geometry & Trigonometry	5–7	15%	Applying concepts of lines, angles, triangles, circles, area, volume, and basic trigonometric relationships

From the Desk of Yocket

The SAT Exam measures your academic readiness for college through two main sections: EBRW and Math, each scored from 200–800. EBRW tests reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary, while Math covers algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and data analysis. The optional Essay section (scored 2–8 in Reading, Analysis, and Writing) evaluates your ability to analyse a source and write persuasively.

To ace the SAT, familiarise yourself with the format, question types, and scoring. With consistent practice and the right strategies, achieving your target score is absolutely possible. For personalised guidance and expert tips, YocketPrep is here to help you every step of the way.