pacing strategies

Know the structure

Each SAT section is timed. Knowing the format helps you control the pace — not get controlled by it.

• Reading & Writing: 2 sections: 32 minutes, 27 questions for each
• Math: 2 sections: 35 minutes, 22 questions for each

There's normally two sections for each subject, and each section has a set number of questions. Knowing this helps you plan your time. Keep in mind, the first section and second section have different scoring weights, the first one is normally worth more than the second.

Create a cushion

Aim to finish each section with 5–10 minutes left. Why? Because checking your answers is a cheat code.

A clean final pass can fix typos, catch misreads, and flip guesses. Those minutes at the end are worth more than the first few.

Here would be a sample breakdown of how you might use your time in a reading section:

Everyone has different pacing needs, so adjust this to fit your style. The key is to finish with time to spare.

Skip with purpose

Don’t get stuck. If you hit friction, flag it and move. Most questions are weighted the same — spend time where it pays off. But, answer the question. There's no penalty for guessing, so if you have no idea, just take a guess.

Train under pressure

Practice full sections under time. Push yourself to finish early — and use that buffer to review. Track where time slipped and learn from it. When you take practice tests on Bluebook, take them as you are actually taking the real thing. Don't take unnecessary breaks, don't pause the timer, and don't look at the answers until the end. This will help you build your pacing skills and get you into the flow of the real thing.

Use timers like tools

Bluebook and OnePrep show timers — learn how they feel. Calibrate your internal clock. Know when 60 seconds is ticking away. If you know your pace perfectly and that you always finish the section decently early, just hide the timer and only check it periodically every 5-7 questions.