The SAT has officially changed. No more stressing over the all the sneaky tricks the SAT tries to play on you. As of this year, College Board announced that they will be creating a new SAT which will start spring of 2016.

The new test will be from a 1600 point scale, unlike the older SAT which is from 2400 point scale. The writing section of the SAT will now be optional allowing students to opt out of writing if it is not their strength. Another aspect of the new test that is different from the old one is that the SAT will now be available to take online and on paper, when it was only available on paper before.

There will be no penalty for wrong answers now as well, much like the ACT. With the current SAT, there is a quarter of a point deducted for every wrong answer.

The math section will be divided into three main categories: Problem solving and data analysis, algebra, and advanced math. For 25 minutes of the 80 minutes of the math portions, students will not be able to use their calculators.

The vocabulary is also modified to use more common words and more words used in the workplace and higher education. Lastly, the reading passages will be more focused on historical documents and scientific topics.

Many people are upset over the fact that they will be changing the test, especially seniors who have already taken the old SAT. However, this change was made because of the decreasing scores over the past years.

“It’s annoying that they are making it easier for the upcoming grades because I know people who have spent so much money on classes and training so it seems unfair,” senior Ashley Britton said.

As many Annandale students know, the SAT has a great impact on which university people go to. Getting a better score on your SAT will increase your chances of getting into your top schools.

“It just depends as to what piece of the SAT, depends on where their weaknesses and strengths lie,” Career Specialist Robin Roth said.

Students should look at online places that can help them prepare. They should take the PSAT and pay to get their results. They should also work on the areas that they need improvement on so they can get a better score. Everyone should take both the ACT and the SAT so they can pick the one that is easier for them.”