Standardized testing has become an extremely common practice in public schools in the United States and around the world. Standardized tests are used as a means of testing a student's knowledge of a particular topic; however, there are many problems associated with the widespread use of standardized tests. One of the most commonly used standardized tests in America is the SAT, or Scholastic Aptitude Test, originally designed to level the playing field for students across America and provide an accurate assessment of a student's knowledge. Some of the major problems that have developed with the SAT are that the test benefits those who can afford expensive test preparation courses, as well as basic problems with the fundamental design of the test. Recently, the College Board, the organization responsible for developing the SAT, made unprecedented changes to how the test was administered and how students could prepare for it. Standardized testing has become an epidemic in America, the SAT is a prime example of the fundamental problems with standardized testing, but recent changes represent a huge step towards reforming the testing process. The SAT has many significant fundamental problems with how the test is administered. designed and how students prepare for it. One of the main problems with the SAT is the essay portion of the test. Research conducted by SAT critics shows that the most important factor related to a high score on the essay portion was the length of the essay (Balf). The test scorers do not focus on the actual content of the essay, but only on the length and use of vocabulary (Balf). This is a problem because the SAT is designed to assess a student's intelligence level, and if the essay is only... half the paper... I hope to solve some of the problems associated with the SAT, but the stakes are much more than simply trying to provide a better standardized test. The reason these changes are truly beneficial is because they represent the first step toward reforming our nation's ability to provide an opportunity to all who desire a dignified and appropriate education, because this is the true embodiment of America, a place where anyone can succeed. CitedBalf, Todd. “The Story Behind Revising the SAT.” The New York Times March 6, 2014: n. page Every time. Network. March 7, 2014..Phelps, Richard P. “Characteristics of an Effective Student Testing System.” Procon.org. Np, 21 June 2011. Web. 7 March. 2014. .