Should You Take the Digital or Paper SAT?

The SAT is an important part of your college application, but with the new digital format now available alongside the traditional paper version, many students wonder which one they should choose. Both formats have their advantages, and the best option depends on your personal preferences and strengths.

The Basics of Digital vs Paper

The main difference between the digital and paper SAT is the format of the test. In the digital SAT, students take the test on a computer. In the paper SAT, the test is still taken with pen and paper. The digital SAT also has a slightly different structure and timing than the paper version.

Advantages of the Digital SAT

• Faster Feedback: On the digital SAT, your scores for some sections will be available much sooner. This can be helpful for planning your next steps.
• No Bubbling: You won’t have to fill in answer bubbles on a sheet of paper, which can save time. Plus, there’s no risk of accidentally mis-bubbling an answer.
• Clean Layout: Many students find the digital version easier to navigate, with clearer question formatting and the ability to review answers directly on-screen.

Advantages of the Paper SAT

• Familiarity: If you’re used to taking tests on paper, you might feel more comfortable with the traditional SAT format. Writing out answers can sometimes help you think more clearly.
• Tactile Experience: Some students find that they concentrate better when writing by hand. For others, the physical act of reading from paper can feel more manageable than staring at a screen for a few hours.
• Less Tech Trouble: In case of technical issues like computer crashes, the paper SAT eliminates the possibility of tech disruptions during the test.

Consider Your Strengths

Think about which environment you tend to perform better in. If you’re comfortable with technology, enjoy using computers for reading and answering questions, and feel confident with the digital format, the digital SAT might be the best option for you. If you prefer paper or if you feel that physical writing helps you focus better, then the paper SAT might be more beneficial.

Test Availability and Location

Not all test centers will offer the digital SAT immediately. Check with your local test center to find out which format is available on your test day. You may need to adjust your preferences based on availability.

Which Format Should You Choose?

Ultimately, your choice between the digital and paper SAT depends on your comfort level with each format. There’s no universal answer, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before you decide. If possible, try to get experience with both formats before test day to see which one feels more natural for you. Whichever you choose, the most important thing is to prepare well. Review practice questions, take timed tests, and stay confident in your abilities.