SAT Math Study Guide

This week, we will be going over the 4 topics that the SAT test makers have broken down the math section into. In order to master the test, we need to know and understand what will possibly come up. That way, we can figure out what our strengths and weaknesses are.

As you follow along, you will be creating your own personalized SAT math study guide. After all, each student is unique, so customize your study plan in a way that makes the most sense to you.

Take some time to look over each section and think about how well you did in school when you were learning those topics. Perhaps you aced all of your algebra classes, but you didn’t do so well while learning trigonometry. In that case, you will want to allocate less time studying linear equations and put in more time refreshing the basics of SOHCAHTOA.

Let’s get started!
 

The Four SAT Math Domains

Algebra – 35%

This section makes up the bulk of the math problems covered on the test. Linear equations, functions, and inequalities are what’s in store for you here. You’ll also be expected to know how to interpret graphs and know how to manipulate them.

What you learned in your algebra classes should be more than sufficient to cover what’s necessary in order to answer the wide array of problems you’ll run into. These types of questions should pose little threat to your hopes of getting a high SAT score.
 

Advanced Math – 35%

Don’t be fooled by the fancy wording; Advanced Math is essentially just another algebra section. However, like the topic name suggests, the questions here will be harder and test your logic and reasoning ability.

While the first section deals with all things linear, this section deals with its non-linear counterparts. Instead of straight lines, you’ll be looking at curves. You’ll also be expected to know how to handle quadratic equations, polynomials, radicals, and exponents.
 

Problem Solving and Data Analysis – 15%

This section is about quantitative reasoning on ratios, rates, and proportional relationships, and analyzing and interpreting one-and two-variable data. You’ll also see perdcentages, models, scatterplots, statistics, and probability questions. You also need to know mean, median, and mode like the back of your hand.
 

Geometry and Trigonometry – 15%

This section covers area and volume; lines, angles, and triangles; circles; right angles and basic trigonometry. If you haven’t gotten to trigonometry yet in school, don’t worry. There are only a few questions in this category and they cover very learnable concepts.
 

What to Do Now to Prepare your SAT Math Study Guide

Now’s the time to do a mental checklist and think about how you want to break down your study time.

Get out a pen and paper and write down how much time you will devote to brushing up on each topic. Focusing on your biggest weaknesses first will help improve your score the most.