The October 2024 SAT exam left students feeling overwhelmed, particularly with challenging questions in Math Module 2 and unusual reading passages. Discover the key takeaways and how to improve for future exams.
The October 2024 SAT exam was another challenging experience, with students expressing frustration and uncertainty over particularly challenging questions, especially in Math Module 2 and the reading comprehension sections. As students anxious waiting period for results, which are expected on October 18th, let's discuss the general sentiment, highlights and lowlights.
The most common complaint about the October SAT centered around the second math module. Test-takers expressed that this section was significantly more difficult than previous tests. Students faced complex problems involving geometry, such as equilateral triangles inscribed in circles and challenging absolute value questions. These types of questions went beyond what many students were prepared for, based on practice exams.
The intricate problem-solving required, coupled with time constraints, created a sense of panic among many test-takers. For some, this section seemed far more advanced than what they had studied, and they left the exam feeling unsure of their performance.
The Reading and Writing sections featured vocabulary that many students found unexpectedly difficult. Words like “superfluous,” “vindicate,” and “unnerve” caused confusion, and the heavy reliance on context to understand these terms added to the difficulty. Students mentioned feeling unprepared for this level of vocabulary, despite extensive practice.
This made the reading comprehension sections particularly challenging. Test-takers who were accustomed to seeing more familiar SAT vocabulary found themselves guessing on questions, often without full confidence in their choices. This aspect of the test highlighted the need for a broader vocabulary when preparing for future SAT exams.
Students were also caught off guard by the unusual reading topics, which included passages about Indigenous songs, magical realism, and the perception of consumer products. These passages demanded not just comprehension but a deeper understanding of abstract or unfamiliar concepts, which many students struggled with.
Rereading passages multiple times and still failing to fully grasp the content was a common experience. For future test-takers, this suggests a need to prepare with a wider range of reading materials to better handle abstract or niche topics that may arise in the exam.
Many students felt pressed for time, particularly in Math Module 2 and the second reading module. The difficult and time-consuming questions in these sections left students scrambling to finish on time, often resorting to guessing on several questions.
This issue indicates the importance of time management during the SAT. Practicing under timed conditions and learning to quickly move on from difficult questions can help students avoid the stress of running out of time.
A common theme throughout the discussion was the uncertainty surrounding scores. Many students left the test unsure of whether they had performed well or poorly. Some felt that their score could range from 1200 to 1550, which highlights the subjective experience of this particular SAT exam.
This sense of uncertainty has led to a wave of anxiety among test-takers. In response, students may benefit from managing their expectations and focusing on preparation strategies that boost confidence, regardless of how unpredictable the test may seem.
For those looking to improve their SAT scores, a few key strategies can help:
Expand Vocabulary Knowledge: Study a wider range of vocabulary, particularly words that may be more advanced or abstract. To get started check out our list of the 400 most commonly tested SAT words.
Diversify Reading Materials: Read a variety of materials, including scientific articles, literary works, and cultural essays. Check out our free list of commonly-tested literature to improve your reading comprehension skills.
Take Practice Tests Under Timed Conditions: Take full-length, timed practice tests to improve your pacing and time management during the real exam.