What to Know About the Redesigned SAT

A look at the coming changes to the college admissions exam.

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What to Know About the Redesigned SAT - In 2016, a redesigned SAT exam will be implemented, College Board announced. The new format will focus on questions that matter most for college readiness and career success, according to the company. Take a look at how the exam has changed.  – Natelege Whaley (@Natelege) (Photo: kali9/Getty Images)

Photo By kali9/Getty Images

The Basics - The first new test will be given in spring 2016 and offered in print and on the computer at some locations. Exams will be scored on a 400 to 1600 scale again. Scores for math and evidence-based reading will be scored on a 200 to 800 scale. Essay scores will be reported separately. (Photo: Ryan Balderas/Getty Images)

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The Basics - The first new test will be given in spring 2016 and offered in print and on the computer at some locations. Exams will be scored on a 400 to 1600 scale again. Scores for math and evidence-based reading will be scored on a 200 to 800 scale. Essay scores will be reported separately. (Photo: Ryan Balderas/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Ryan Balderas/Getty Images

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Relevant Words in Context - Dump the flash cards. The redesigned test will ask students to interpret the meaning of words based on the context of a passage. There will be more focus on relevant words that students will use in their lives beyond high school. (Photo: Art Vandalay/Getty Images)

Command of Evidence - In the evidence-based reading and writing section, test takers will have to demonstrate their ability to interpret and synthesize evidence such as graphics, multi-paragraph passages and texts in humanities, science and other disciplines. (Photo: Roy Mehta/Getty Images)

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Command of Evidence - In the evidence-based reading and writing section, test takers will have to demonstrate their ability to interpret and synthesize evidence such as graphics, multi-paragraph passages and texts in humanities, science and other disciplines. (Photo: Roy Mehta/Getty Images)

Essay Analyzing a Source - The essay will now be an optional part of the redesigned SAT.  Some schools may require it. Students that must write an essay will be asked to explain how the author builds an argument and must use evidence from the passage to support their claims. (Photo: Steve Wisbauer/Getty Images)

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Essay Analyzing a Source - The essay will now be an optional part of the redesigned SAT.  Some schools may require it. Students that must write an essay will be asked to explain how the author builds an argument and must use evidence from the passage to support their claims. (Photo: Steve Wisbauer/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Steve Wisbauer/Getty Images

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Math Focused on Three Key Areas - Three essential areas of math will become the focus of the new SATs: Problem Solving and Data Analysis, the Heart of Algebra (a focus on linear equations) and Passport to Advanced Math (a focus on more complex equations).  (Photo: Pete Marovich/MCT /Landov)

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Math Focused on Three Key Areas - Three essential areas of math will become the focus of the new SATs: Problem Solving and Data Analysis, the Heart of Algebra (a focus on linear equations) and Passport to Advanced Math (a focus on more complex equations). (Photo: Pete Marovich/MCT /Landov)

Problems Grounded in Real-World Contexts - Questions in the reading, writing and math sections will feature charts, graphs and passages that apply to science, social science, career and other real-life contexts. (Photo: PA Photos /Landov)

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Problems Grounded in Real-World Contexts - Questions in the reading, writing and math sections will feature charts, graphs and passages that apply to science, social science, career and other real-life contexts. (Photo: PA Photos /Landov)

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Analysis in Science and in Social Studies - Students will be asked to apply their reading, writing, language and math skills to answer science, history and social studies questions. This involves reading, comprehending and revising texts. (Photo: Image Source/Getty Images)

Sharpen Your Brain - Need to be in top form for an interview or test? Research shows that people who have massages enjoy increased mental clarity and agility right after.  (Photo: Luis Alvarez/Getty Images)

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An Excerpt From America’s Founding Documents - The new exam will now feature an excerpt of one of America’s founding documents, including the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence or the U.S. Constitution.  (Photo: Luis Alvarez/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Luis Alvarez/Getty Images

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No Penalty for Wrong Answers - Students will no longer be penalized for wrong answers. Instead they will be given points for the questions they answer correctly. (Photo: Commercial Appeal /Landov)