The College Board recently announced that there will be major revisions to the SAT starting in 2016. These changes were made in order to rival the ACT, which according to The Washington Post, has recently surpassed the SAT as the most used test nationwide in 2012.  The biggest change is the SAT shifting back to its original score out of 1600 instead of 2400, with Math and Reading sections ranging from 200-800 points each. In addition to making the essay optional, there will no longer be a penalty for wrong answers. That means if someone like me is feeling lazy, they not only don’t have to do an essay, but I can answer every question at random and potentially get a decent score.

These changes to the standardized test are sure to have a massive effect on the scores of future students, because the test is now completely redefined and the core elements are different. This change is a positive thing. Using these tests to determine ability are flawed and a waste of time and money, but unfortunately they are required to move forward in higher education. When a test changes to suit students better, it becomes a better measure of the student’s overall ability.

I never took the SAT, but I think this is a smart move by the SAT as it makes it a much less punishing test. The more a test can encourage students to succeed and improve, the better the test is as a tool. I hope these changes aren’t the last we’ll see added to such a largely used test. Change can be good, especially for things like the SAT that practically determine your future. No pressure though…