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SAT Prep FAQ

Everything you need to know about the Digital SAT, our free prep platform, study strategies, and more. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us.

Getting Started

What is LockedIn?

LockedIn is a free nonprofit SAT prep platform that delivers daily practice problems to your inbox. We focus on high-intensity, consistent training for the Digital SAT — covering Math, Reading, and Writing. Unlike traditional prep courses, we strip away the fluff and deliver curated problems with instant feedback every morning at 5 AM.

Is LockedIn really free?

Yes, 100% free. LockedIn is a nonprofit platform built to democratize elite SAT preparation. There are no hidden fees, subscription tiers, or paywalls. Every daily drill, analytics dashboard, streak tracker, and training resource is available at no cost — forever. We believe test prep should not be a luxury.

How do I get started with LockedIn?

Getting started takes 30 seconds: (1) Enter your email on the LockedIn homepage to subscribe to free daily SAT drills. (2) Check your inbox every morning for a curated SAT problem. (3) Solve it, review the explanation, and track your progress on your dashboard. You can also sign up for a full account to unlock analytics, streaks, and leaderboards.

Do I need to create an account?

No, you can start receiving daily SAT drills with just your email via our newsletter. However, creating a free account unlocks your personal dashboard with progress tracking, XP points, streak counts, performance analytics, and the leaderboard. We recommend signing up to get the full benefit of the platform.

The Digital SAT

What is the Digital SAT and how is it different?

The Digital SAT is the computer-adaptive version of the SAT launched in 2024 by the College Board. Key differences: it is shorter (2 hours 14 minutes vs 3 hours), uses adaptive section-level testing (the second module adjusts to your performance), features shorter reading passages with one question each, and includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator. Scores are still on the 1600 scale and equally accepted by all colleges.

When is the Digital SAT offered?

The Digital SAT is offered seven times per year in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. International test dates may differ. Check the official College Board website for exact dates and registration deadlines. We recommend registering at least 4-6 weeks in advance.

Can I use a calculator on the Digital SAT?

Yes. The Digital SAT includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator in the Math section. You can also bring your own approved calculator (see the College Board list of accepted models). The Desmos calculator is available throughout both Math modules, not just specific questions.

How is the Digital SAT scored?

The Digital SAT is scored on the same 1600-point scale: 200-800 for Math and 200-800 for Reading & Writing. The adaptive format means the second module per section adjusts in difficulty based on your performance in the first module. Scores are typically delivered within 2-3 weeks, significantly faster than the paper SAT.

Practice & Study Strategies

How often should I practice for the SAT?

Consistency beats cramming. Research shows that 15-30 minutes of daily practice is more effective than several hours once a week. LockedIn delivers one high-quality problem per day, which takes about 5-10 minutes to solve and review. For best results, supplement with targeted practice in your weaker areas and take full-length practice tests monthly.

What SAT subjects does LockedIn cover?

LockedIn covers all three core SAT sections: Math (including algebra, advanced math, problem-solving & data analysis, and geometry/trigonometry), Reading & Writing (including information & ideas, craft & structure, expression of ideas, and standard English conventions). Our problems are mapped to the official College Board skills framework.

How do daily drills improve SAT scores?

Daily drills leverage two powerful learning science principles: spaced repetition and active recall. Spaced repetition moves information from short-term to long-term memory by revisiting concepts at optimal intervals. Active recall forces your brain to retrieve information, strengthening neural pathways. Together, they build pattern recognition and speed — the two most critical factors for SAT success.

How many practice tests should I take?

We recommend taking 4-6 full-length practice tests before your actual SAT. Space them out — one every 3-4 weeks. Between practice tests, use LockedIn daily drills to target weak areas revealed by each test. The official College Board Bluebook app has 6 adaptive digital practice tests that simulate the real testing experience.

What is a good SAT score?

A "good" SAT score depends on your target colleges. The national average is around 1050. A score of 1200+ puts you above average. 1350+ is competitive for many selective schools. 1500+ places you in the 99th percentile and is competitive for Ivy League and top-tier universities. LockedIn helps students aim for 1500+ through consistent daily practice.

LockedIn Platform

How does the daily drill delivery work?

Once you subscribe with your email, you receive one SAT problem delivered to your inbox every morning at 5 AM. Each problem includes the question, answer choices, and a detailed explanation. Click through to solve it on our platform where you get instant feedback, and your result is automatically tracked in your dashboard.

What is the XP system and how does it work?

XP (experience points) tracks your consistency and performance. You earn XP for: solving problems (base XP), correct answers (bonus XP), maintaining streaks (multiplier bonuses), and logging in daily. Higher XP unlocks leaderboard positions and helps you track your overall engagement. Think of it as leveling up your SAT preparation.

What are streaks and why do they matter?

A streak tracks how many consecutive days you solve at least one problem. Streaks matter because consistency is the #1 predictor of SAT score improvement. LockedIn rewards long streaks with XP multipliers and visual recognition. A 30-day streak is a strong indicator you are building the habitual discipline needed for test day.

Can I track my progress over time?

Yes. Your LockedIn dashboard shows detailed analytics: accuracy by subject (Math, Reading, Writing), problem history, XP growth over time, streak calendar, and comparative leaderboard ranking. This data helps you identify weak areas and adjust your study focus.

What is a school squad on LockedIn?

A school squad lets you join with classmates on LockedIn. Teachers can create a squad for their class, and students join using an invite code. Squad members can see each other on the leaderboard, creating friendly competition and accountability. Teachers can also monitor their students' progress through the Teacher Dashboard.

Teachers & Schools

Can teachers use LockedIn for their classes?

Absolutely. LockedIn offers a free Teacher Dashboard where educators can create school squads, invite students, and monitor individual and class-wide progress. Teachers can see accuracy rates, problem completion, XP earned, and identify which students need extra support. It is designed to integrate seamlessly into a classroom routine.

Is LockedIn aligned with school curriculum?

LockedIn problems are mapped to the College Board SAT skills framework, which aligns with standard high school math and ELA curricula. Teachers can use LockedIn as a supplementary tool to reinforce classroom learning while preparing students for the SAT. The daily format works well as a bell-ringer or homework assignment.

How do I join a school squad as a student?

Ask your teacher for your school's LockedIn invite code. Once you have it, go to your dashboard settings and enter the code in the "Join School" section. You will be automatically added to your school squad and can see classmates on the leaderboard. If your teacher has not set up a squad yet, encourage them to sign up for the Teacher Dashboard.

Technical & Account

What devices does LockedIn work on?

LockedIn works on any device with a web browser — desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone. The platform is fully responsive and optimized for mobile use. Daily drills are delivered via email, and the solve interface works seamlessly on all screen sizes. No app download is needed.

I forgot my password. How do I reset it?

Go to the LockedIn login page and click "Forgot?" next to the password field. Enter your email address, and we will send you a password reset link. If you do not see the email within a few minutes, check your spam folder. For further assistance, contact our support team at team@lockedin.study.

How do I unsubscribe from daily emails?

Every daily drill email includes an unsubscribe link at the bottom. Click it to stop receiving emails. You can also update your email preferences in your account settings after logging in. Your account and data will remain intact even if you unsubscribe from daily emails.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is happy to help. Reach out anytime and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

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