Mastering the redesigned SAT‘s math section requires more than just well-rounded knowledge of mathematical principles. You must be able to quickly recognize which skills are being tested, as well as how to solve each problem in the least amount of time.
Each of these skills also has many real-world applications, so mastering these skills has value beyond the college entrance exam.
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Here are four general math areas to review for the SAT math section.
— Algebra: Many of the algebra problems on the redesigned SAT rely on straightforward application of the skills you learn in high school math classes — for instance, solving for x. The more difficult task lies in understanding when and how to use these algebra skills.
For example, consider this sample question that involves three equations. Students confident in their algebra skills might immediately begin simplifying terms.
A strong SAT test-taker, however, will recognize that equations share solutions at the points where they intersect. This entire problem can be solved by locating those places where the equations meet. The answer is B — no math is required to solve it.
Hone these skills by familiarizing yourself with these charts as much as possible. As you increase the variety of charts you look at, the quicker you’ll eventually be able to recognize patterns and quick paths to the answer, such as in this example.
You may not encounter many plot intersection items outside the realm of the SAT, but knowing when to forego complicated analysis is a vital real-world skill. Computer programmers, for instance, often have access to extensive libraries of prebuilt code. Before designing a complex program, they may investigate whether a simpler solution currently exists.
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— Geometry: As with algebra, the key to geometry test questions lies in understanding when to apply the appropriate formulas as well as understanding what other essential rules may be related.
This challenging sample geometry question relies on the test-taker applying the Pythagorean theorem and recalling the properties of circles.
To find the distance x between the two lines, draw a line from the center of the circle to point D to create a right triangle with sides r, x and ?r. Put those values into the Pythagorean theorem — (?r) 2+x 2=r 2 — and solve for x, and you have your answer.
Simply understanding and being comfortable with the Pythagorean theorem will help you in a number of cases in geometry. When you spot an opportunity for a right triangle, immediately consider whether the Pythagorean theorem can help you identify missing information that can bring you to the correct answer.
Geometry is ever-present in the real world, from hanging a picture from a wire that bends in an arc to understanding why larger tires on a car will affect the speedometer. it is vital for grasping how objects relate to one another in space.
— Data analysis: Some of the data analysis items on the redesigned SAT are also chart or graph analysis questions. Consider this sample set of three questions.
At first glance, the initial problem may seem like a biology question. You could replace the anatomy terms with any other word, however, and still easily solve the problem.
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All you need to know is that to find the difference in a point, you can count the number of units on the y-axis that separate the point from the line; chart data is presented with the x-axis causing the y-axis — that is, y is dependent on x; and a line of best fit can be used to predict data by finding the y value that corresponds to a particular x value. The answer here is B.
Data analysis is omnipresent in the post-SAT world. For example, understanding a chart of temperatures by date requires you to find the connection between a time of year and the average high or low temperature. Being able to comprehend such a chart may come in handy, for instance, when you’re trying to decide which college campuses on your short list have the warmest weather or down the line when you’re considering a move to a new city based on a job prospect.
— Story problems: One final major challenge on the redesigned SAT is decoding story problems.
As this sample story problem demonstrates, not every question includes a given equation. Knowing how to translate words into equations is a major portion of the test.
What does “doubles” mean in this problem, and how can you represent the concept of “over time” in a mathematical equation? A great first step is simply assigning variables to these concepts — plug them into an equation, and you’ll be on your way to the answer. If you have not yet guessed it, the answer is D.
Knowing how to translate words into a mathematical equation can serve you well outside of the SAT. Consider restaurant waitstaff, who may be asked to divide the cost of an appetizer among two diners but split the remainder of the bill among five individuals.
Acing the SAT’s math section is not an easy task. But the effort you put into honing these skills for a high score will pay dividends for you in the future as well.
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Master Key Skills on the Redesigned SAT Math Section originally appeared on usnews.com
