As a college-bound junior, you may be wondering which version of the SAT to take: the current SAT or the new computer adaptive SAT. While both exams have their pros and cons, in this blog post, we’ll make the case for why you should consider taking the current SAT.
First and foremost, familiarity is a key advantage of the current SAT. Many high school students have been preparing for the current SAT since their freshman or sophomore year, and have become accustomed to the format and structure of the exam. On the other hand, the new computer adaptive SAT may require you to learn a completely new set of skills, such as navigating an unfamiliar interface and adjusting to different question formats.
Another benefit of the current SAT is that it is a more predictable exam. With the current SAT, you know exactly what you’re going to get. You can prepare for the exam by studying past tests and practicing with official test prep materials. In contrast, the new computer adaptive SAT adapts to your level of ability, which can make it harder to predict what kinds of questions you will face. This unpredictability can create added stress and anxiety on test day.
The current SAT also offers more flexibility in terms of test dates and locations. The test is offered seven times a year, and there are numerous test centers across the country. This means that you can choose a date and location that works best for your schedule, and won’t have to worry about traveling long distances or missing school.
Moreover, many students find the current SAT to be a fairer exam. The new computer adaptive SAT adapts to your level of ability, which means that some students may end up with more difficult questions than others. This can create an uneven playing field, and make it harder to compare scores across test takers. The current SAT, in contrast, offers a level playing field for all students, as all test takers face the same set of questions.
While the new computer adaptive SAT may seem like a tempting option, there are many reasons to consider taking the current SAT. Its predictability, familiarity, flexibility, and fairness, all make it a compelling choice for college-bound juniors. So, dust off your study materials, sharpen your pencils, and get ready to conquer the current SAT!
