A common misconception about SAT is that the math is very complex. However, this is not true. The math on the SAT is very simple. It consists of arithmetic, algebra I, geometry and algebra II. There is no trigonometry, no calculus and definitely no calculus.
But that doesn’t mean the problems are easy. Many of the math problems will require multiple steps, some will serve to confuse you, and many will be pure puzzles. That’s right, some of the SAT math problems are puzzles designed to test your ability to find a solution, not your math skills.
SAT is getting real SAT questions
the best way to prepare for the SAT Score Calculator is to ask yourself real SAT questions and practice solving them. You need to get a feel for the type of math questions that are on the SAT. These questions will not resemble the problems you are used to solving in math class.
However, remember that the SAT is a standardized test and the problems will be similar from year to year. This means you can practice with previous test problems for the SAT. So get some practice tests and start practicing.
To help you with your practice time, here are some coaching tips:
Tip #1 Choose your study guide
The only SAT Study Guide you need is the Official SAT Study Guide , written by the College Board. It is written by the same organization that writes the test. This means it’s the only study guide with real SAT questions. It includes ten practice tests with clefs, which is more than enough for practice assignments and practice tests.
Tip #2 Learn the directions
Once you have your study guide, get to know the book. Read the table of contents, flip through some of the chapters, and read chapters about the different math tests.
Most importantly, you must read and study the instructions for each math test. Knowing the instructions before test day means you don’t have to waste time reading the instructions during the test.
Tip #3 Recognize the Similarities
Now the real work begins. Starting with test one, go through the math sections of each test and start noticing the similarities in the types of problems. Don’t do any of the tasks yet. Just notice how similar the problems are. You should note that many of the issues follow the same format and are therefore solved in the same way. That’s why practice is so important.
Tip #4 Correct your mistakes
Choose four of the tests in your study guide to use as practice assignments, and complete at least three assignments each day. Try to solve each task yourself and see how you did. Seek help for the issues you missed so you can learn from your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, because correcting mistakes is the best way to learn.
Tip #5 Pay attention to patterns
As you work out the SAT problems from different tests, look for patterns that appear with similar types of problems. By learning to recognize patterns that are used repeatedly, you can save time solving similar problems. Yes, there will be patterns. It’s inevitable on a standardized test.
Tip #6: Learn to use your calculator
Since you’re allowed to use a calculator, why not learn how to use it properly. Either sit down with the manual or let a tutor help you get the most out of your calculator. Then use the calculator every time you practice or take a practice test.
I recommend the TI-83, TI-84 or TI-30A. But the choice is yours.
Tip #7 Review the math basics
If you find yourself having a hard time recognizing certain math concepts, you may need to brush up on your math skills.
Here is a list of math skills that are a must:
- Fractions both simple and compound
- Percentages and decimals
- Reading charts and graphs
- basic algebra
- Tilt
- coordinate graphs
- quadratic
- plane geometry
- absolute value
Improving your SAT math score comes with practice. Reading articles and boosting skills is useless if you don’t take action and practice a few problems every day.
