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A lot of attention has been given to the essay portion of the new SAT; most of it unwarranted. The reason being that the essay counts for only about one-third of the score of one of three sections. In other words, the SAT essay portion is only one-ninth of the total SAT score.

The essay is not the only change on the new SAT. Gone are the tiresome analogies along with quantitative comparisons and an emphasis on vocabulary. The new additions are higher level math questions, increased focus on grammar and more critical reading.

According to a recent article posted on CNN.com, many experts believe prep classes aren’t necessary, though they suggest practicing. Students can take a full length practice test at Collegeboard.

Despite the changes that have been made to the SAT, many believe it’s not really that much different. Director of Test Preparation for Peterson’s, Ben Paris, insists the test is really “changing the skills that are being tested” rather than completely overhauling the test. The College Board says the new version will be different, not harder.

High school junior, Nora Hakkakzadeh, believes she has a handle on the SAT process. “I think the change in the SATs is for the better, but the way you approach it is just the same.” The tried and proven way to do well on the SAT is for students to prepare for the test by becoming familiar with each component through the use of practice tests.