The EDUFAX Educational FAQ

Question #111:

I have heard that the SAT penalizes guessing. Is that true?

Answer #111:

The SAT does not penalize guessing, al long as it is an "educated guess". They take off 1/4 point for an incorrect answer, give a full point for a correct answer, but neither add nor subtract for a question that is not answered. Of course, if you leave too many blank, it will affect your score. But the SAT is definitely geared (4 to 1) in favor of credit for right answers. Guessing is generally not a good strategy. The answers to SAT Verbal essay questions are usually contained in the passages. No outside knowledge is required although critical thinking skills should be well developed in order to extract the appropriate information. The Math SAT requires knowledge of certain levels of mathematics. If you do not know how to do the problem, guessing will probably not help. You can find the best deals on the 'Net for PSAT/SAT/ACT prep CDs and tutorials through the EDUFAX site. EDUFAX provides Verbal Test Prep Tutorials (PSAT/SAT I/SAT II/ACT).

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