In an effort to improve the SAT, the College Board has decided to make changes to the test.

“The best thing is that students now have the chance to make an educated guess and better their scores,” senior Muhammad Ali said. “The worst part is the fact that calculators won’t be allowed on every math section.”

Beginning in 2016, students taking the SAT will see major changes to the test including an optional essay portion and questions focusing more on knowledge application.

“I think it will help,” freshman Steven Herrera said. “It all depends (on) if I choose to do the proper studying and preparation and get good habits down now.”

The redesigned SAT will not only help colleges narrow down what they are looking for, but also provide a student their strengths and weaknesses to work on.

“If the SAT is more aligned with what is taught in the classroom, I’m all for it,” Counselor LeeAnne Grommesh said. “As to whether it is a better measure, I believe it will depend on the curriculum College Board uses as a guide.”

Freshman Brandon Jones said he is more confident in taking the new test.

“I feel as if the new one will suit me better than the original test, because there are more subjects in the old version,” he said.

Test Prep Teacher Krystle Yanoff said the changes will improve students’ ability to take the test.

“It will allow students to focus on less obscure vocabulary words and fewer math topics,” she said, “A little practice in all three subject areas will go a long way.”