The November 2024 SAT: Thoughts and Comments

I just returned home a few minutes ago from taking the November 2, 2024, Official College Board SAT®. Here my thoughts on the test.

Generally speaking, I didn't think there was anything out of the ordinary. Were the second modules challenging? Yes. Were they inordinately challenging? I didn't think so. Let's break it down by section:

The Reading and Writing Section

The Reading and Writing section started fairly easily with the first module, as was expected. The second module pushed my limits for both concentration and efficiency. I employed the strategy of skipping the majority of the tougher reading comprehension passages at the start, then came back to them once I had completed the shorter, easier components of the test. I felt really strong in grammar, vocabulary, transitions, and synthesis. There were at least two Command of Evidence questions that took me longer than expected and pressed me into the final moments of that section. I felt they required a very high level of comprehension.

The Math Section

The Math section followed a similar pattern, as it usually does. The first module was a breeze. The second module required a bit more observation, and by the time I reached the last two questions, I was pressed for time. I gave them both my best effort but left wishing I'd had a bit more time to spend on checking answers.

With this being the first official test I've taken in person for the fall of 2024, it was a good refresher on just how difficult the College Board is making the real SAT®.

What to Expect for the December SAT®

With the feedback I've received from students on the August, September, and October exams, and now having taken the November test, I expect that December will present a similar pattern. The question is, "How do you prepare if the practice tests are not as difficult as the real thing?"

I'm glad you asked.

How to Prepare for the Upcoming SAT®

My recommendation is this:

If you haven't completed all of the Bluebook Practice SAT exams, do one each weekend between now and the December test. There's one caveat. I want you to add two or three difficult questions from the Official College Board Question Bank as you work through the second modules. In other words, complete the second module of each section within the same time constraint but with two or three added "difficult" questions.

Ideally, for the Reading and Writing section, these should come from the Command of Evidence and Inference skills. For Math, try to choose problems from Geometry or Advanced Math.

If you can complete the test in the same amount of time, albeit with two or three extra questions, and do it with accuracy, you'll be much better prepared.

Solving Issues with Time

To create the padding you'll need for longer passage questions, you'll need to shorten the amount of time you spend elsewhere. You must master the elements of vocabulary, grammar, transition, and synthesis questions and shorten the amount of time you answer these. 30 seconds or less is ideal. 

If you'd like to spend a few sessions with me practicing techniques for speed, I'd love to show you some tips and tricks. Reach out soon, and let me know your thoughts on the November SAT.

Mr. John