If you’re asking, “How many questions are on the SAT?” you’re not alone.
Understanding the test structure is one of the first steps in preparing effectively.
While the shift to the digital SAT hasn’t added more questions, it has introduced new tools, timing, and adaptive modules that can affect how you pace yourself and prepare.
After researching the new format and reviewing the latest practice tools, I found that success depends not just on knowing the question count but on understanding how each section works, how long you’ll spend on test day, and how to manage your time effectively from the first module to the last.
Key Takeaways
- Total Questions: The SAT consists of 98 questions, divided into 54 in the verbal section and 44 in the math section, each section comprising two modules.
- Verbal Section: Two modules of 27 questions each, focused on grammar, reading, and short‑form analysis.
- Math Section: Two modules of 22 questions each, combining multiple‑choice and student‑entered answers.
- Test Format: Administered digitally using an on-site testing device with built-in tools: calculator, timer, and flagging system.
- Timing: The full test lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes, excluding the 10-minute break between sections.
The SAT: Section Format and Timing
The SAT covers two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math, each divided into two equal modules. Test duration totals 2 hours and 14 minutes, with a single 10‑minute break separating Reading & Writing from Math.
This format adapts to your performance: after the first module, the difficulty adjusts in the second. A stronger first module can lead to more complex questions later.
Reading and Writing Section: What to Expect
The Reading and Writing section comprises 54 multiple-choice questions, divided equally between two 32-minute modules (approximately 27 questions each), utilizing brief passages.
- Standard English Conventions: grammar and sentence structure
- Editing Skills: improving clarity and organization
- Information and Ideas: evaluating claims and evidence
All questions offer four answer choices. No long passages questions are paired with short excerpts, usually a few lines. I appreciate that this helps reduce fatigue and maintain focus throughout. After reviewing the setup, I found the short‑passage approach supports better pacing and clarity.
Math Section: Two Modules and Multiple Question Types
The Math section has 44 questions total:
- 33 multiple‑choice
- 11 student‑produced response questions
Each module: 22 questions, 35 minutes covers:
- Algebra: linear equations and systems
- Advanced Math: quadratic and exponential functions
- Data analysis and Problem Solving: ratios and interpreting graphs
- Geometry and Trigonometry: area, volume, and angles
Digital SAT: Tools, Devices, and Practice Environment
The SAT is delivered via the Bluebook app on a laptop or tablet at an official test center.
Tool features include:
- Onscreen calculator for all math items
- Timer (toggleable)
- Flagging system to mark questions
- Zoom and answer‑elimination tools for accessibility
Students may bring their own devices or borrow one at the center. The test remains proctored on-site to maintain integrity.
SAT Scoring: How Questions Convert to 1600
Each section, Reading & Writing and Math, receives a score between 200 and 800, totaling a final range of 400 to 1600.
No penalty for wrong answers, guessing always helps. The adaptive second module can boost your scaled score even if you miss a few questions, as long as you perform well overall.
Time Management Skills: How to Stay on Track
With 98 total questions in 134 minutes, efficient pacing is critical:
- Reading & Writing: 64 minutes (32 per module) → 1 minute 11 seconds per question
- Math: 70 minutes (35 per module) → 1 minute 35 seconds per question
Flag tough questions and return if time permits. Consistent practice under timed conditions helps build confidence and realistic pacing for test day.
Practice Tests and Preparation: What Works
Use official practice tests with full-length simulations with accurate adaptive scoring.
Focus your prep on:
- Analyzing short texts and improving sentence clarity in the verbal section
- Core math areas like algebra, data interpretation, and applied problem-solving
Review missed questions to identify patterns in errors, whether from rushing, misreading, or topic gaps. Refinement based on real practice is essential.
Final Thoughts
The SAT’s 98-question format challenges more than just academic knowledge—it tests your timing, focus, and ability to adapt. With two modules per section and a fully digital setup, success largely depends on strategic preparation. Students who practice under timed conditions and become familiar with the test tools—such as the on-screen calculator and flagging system—enter the test more confidently and perform better.
Want a head start? Try an SAT prep course, such as UWorld, PrepScholar, or Prep Expert to build skills, boost speed, and track your progress with expert-designed tools.
FAQs
There are 98 questions total: 54 in the Reading and Writing section, and 44 in the Math section.
It tests grammar, sentence comprehension, editing skills, and text analysis.
Topics include algebra, geometry, data analysis, and advanced math concepts such as functions and exponential growth.
No. 2 hours and 14 minutes, plus a 10-minute break between sections.
No. The built-in graphing calculator in the testing platform handles all math questions.
