Are you a high school student preparing for the SAT? Well, you've probably asked yourself: What kind of math is on the SAT?
Now, you must keep in mind that this test is a crucial part of the college admissions process, and understanding which specific math topics to focus on can make all the difference.
So, whether you're aiming to get the perfect score or just trying to pass the test, understanding how SAT math works is the sure way to do it.
In this blog, we will help you discover the types of math on the SAT! From algebra to geometry, learn what to expect and how to prepare for this crucial section of your college admissions test.
Why is the SAT Math Section Important?
SAT Math is essential because it tests whether you are ready or not for the next level of math in college. Being able to answer and pass this test will be the basis for whether you have learned and understood high school math.
Aside from the reason above, the Math SAT section also holds 50% of the overall SAT score. So, acing this section of the SAT can get you into your dream college.
For all these reasons, it's clear that preparing for the math section is essential and deserves your full attention.
SAT Math Section Structure
The SAT Math section is divided into four main areas:
- Algebra
- Advanced Math
- Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
- Geometry and Trigonometry
These subjects total 44 questions and make up 50% of your total SAT score. This means your performance in the SAT Math section can significantly impact your overall results, whether it can boost your score or bring it down.
In addition, the time limit for taking the SAT MATH is 70 minutes and will be divided into two equal sections. The first half is a mix of easy, medium, and complex questions. Then, the difficulty level of the second module adapts based on your performance in the first module. All in all, most questions are multiple choice, but some require you to enter the answer rather than selecting it.
In the past, part of the Math section did not allow calculators, but that changed in 2023. Now, students are permitted to use a calculator throughout the entire Math section, either by bringing an approved one or using the built-in Desmos calculator in the digital testing app.
SAT Math Sections
Algebra
This part checks how well you understand and solve basic equations and inequalities, especially ones with variables like x and y. You’ll also solve systems of equations (two equations at once) and work with linear functions, which are straight lines on a graph.
This section makes up about 35% of the Math test (about 13–15 questions).
Topics include:
- Linear equations in one variable: These are math problems where you solve to find the value of just one variable, like x. Example: 3x+4=103x + 4 = 10.
- Linear equations in two variables: Finding the value of these two letters, like x and y, usually makes a straight line when you draw them on a graph. Example: y=2x+1y = 2x + 1.
- Linear functions: These are special equations that show how one thing changes with another in a straight-line pattern. Example: If x goes up by 1, y might go up by 2.
- Systems of two linear equations in two variables: This means solving two equations at the same time to find out what values of x and y work in both. Example:
x+y=6x + y = 6
x−y=2x - y = 2 - Linear inequalities in one or two variables: Like equations, but instead of an equals sign, they use symbols like <, >, ≤, or ≥. You find the values that make the statement true. Example: x>3x > 3 or y≤2x+1y ≤ 2x + 1.
Advanced Math
This section of SAT Math is about more complicated topics that you’ll see in future math classes. It includes harder equations like quadratic or exponential, as well as systems of equations where at least one is nonlinear.
Try our free trial class and learn how to work with expressions in different forms. This also makes up about 35% of the Math test (around 13–15 questions).
Topics include:
- Equivalent Expressions: This means taking a math expression and changing the way it looks without changing what it means. For example, 2(x+3)2(x + 3)2(x+3) is the same as 2x+62x + 62x+6.
- Solving nonlinear equations in one variable: These are equations where the variable is squared, cubed, or in some other form that doesn’t make a straight line. You’re still just finding the value of one variable, like solving x2=16x^2 = 16x2=16.
- Solving systems of linear and nonlinear equations in two variables: Here, you solve two equations at the same time—one makes a straight line, the other a curve—to find the point where they meet. For example, solving y=x+1y = x + 1y=x+1 and y=x2y = x^2y=x2 together.
- Understanding and graphing nonlinear functions (like curves): These are functions that don’t form straight lines when you graph them. You learn how they work and what their graphs look like, like how y=x2y = x^2y=x2 makes a U-shaped curve.
Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
This SAT MATH section is about using numbers to solve everyday problems. You’ll work with things like percentages, ratios, and graphs. It also includes questions on probability and figuring out if data is being used correctly in studies or surveys. This part is about 15% of the test (about 5–7 questions).
Topics include:
- Ratios, rates, and proportional relationships: These help you compare things. For example, if a recipe uses 2 cups of flour for every 3 cups of sugar, that’s a ratio or a proportion.
- Units and unit conversions: This is about understanding measurements (like inches, feet, or kilometres) and switching between them. For example, turning 3 feet into 36 inches.
- Percentages: This covers how to work with parts of 100, like figuring out discounts, tips, or how much something increased or decreased.
- One-variable data: distributions, averages, and spread: This is about looking at a bunch of numbers and figuring out patterns, like finding the average score on a test or how spread out the scores are.
- Two-variable data: scatterplots and trend lines: You’ll learn how to look at data for two things (like height and weight), plot them on a graph, and see if there’s a pattern or trend.
- Probability and conditional probability: This is about figuring out how likely something is to happen, and how that might change if you know something else. For example, what’s the chance of picking a red marble from a bag, especially if you know one has already been removed?
- Making inferences from data and understanding the margin of error: This means using sample data to make smart guesses about a bigger group, and knowing how exact or off your guess might be.
- Judging statistical claims from experiments or surveys: You’ll learn how to tell if data from a study or survey really proves what it says, or if something seems off or misleading.
Geometry and Trigonometry
This section covers shapes and measurements. You’ll solve problems involving area, volume, angles, triangles, and circles. It also includes some basic trigonometry (using sine, cosine, and tangent), especially with right triangles. This is also 15% of the test, or about 5–7 questions.
Topics include:
- Area and volume of shapes: You’ll learn how to find how much space is inside a shape (area) or how much it can hold (volume). For example, finding the area of a rectangle or the volume of a box.
- Lines and angles: This covers how straight lines and angles work, like figuring out the size of angles when lines cross or form shapes.
- Triangles, including right triangles: You’ll work with all kinds of triangles, especially right triangles, and use rules like the Pythagorean Theorem to solve problems.
- Basic trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent): These are special tools for right triangles that help you find missing side lengths or angles. They're based on ratios between the sides.
- Circles (including angles, arcs, and radius/diameter relationships): You’ll learn about the parts of a circle and how they relate, like how big a slice (arc) is or how the diameter is always twice the radius.
How to Study for SAT Math?
After knowing what to expect, the next step for a successful SAT math result is to study effectively. Usually, it takes 3-6 months for most students to study and prepare for the SAT.
We understand that math isn’t always easy, as it takes a mix of understanding the ideas, knowing the steps, and using what you know to solve real-life problems.
But with the right SAT strategies, you can do great too! Read down below the pro tips from our top instructors:
So here are some tips that you can do to ace this section of the SAT:
1. Use an SAT Math Formula Sheet:
The SAT provides a reference sheet with key formulas, but it's still a good idea to memorize them. These common formulas include:
- Slope formula: (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
- Pythagorean theorem: a² + b² = c²
- Circle area: πr²
2. Practice Math Questions Daily
Keep in mind that consistency is key, so doing one math problem every day can help you improve what you know and don't know, as well as build your confidence over time. You can search online for a "SAT Math Problem of the Day" or use prep books.
3. Take Full-Length Practice Tests
Another thing that you can do is take free SAT tests that the College Board offers free SAT practical tests. So, what you can do is take at least 3-4 full-length tests under timed conditions that can simulate the actual exam.
4. Use Online Resources and Tutors
Remember, it's ok to need extra help, so if you need one, consider working with an SAT tutor who can help you with your SAT prep. Tutors like Park Tutoring can give you personalized support and strategies for tackling the most challenging SAT math questions.
5. Your calculator is your best friend
Get to know it. If you're using a calculator, keep practicing solving problems with it beforehand. By doing so, you will know how to use functions like exponents, fractions, and roots.
6. Focus on your weak areas
Are you struggling with geometry? Spend extra time mastering topics that you find challenging. You can also use online guides, like a detailed math study guide, to improve.
7. Time management is key
Remember, you'll only have less than 1.5 minutes per question, so keep practicing your pacing. So don't spend too long on a single question—mark it, move on, and return to it when you have time.
8. Create a cheat sheet for study
Create a personal "SAT math cheat sheet" or formulas, tips, and reminders. So, regularly study it ahead of time until test day.
SAT Math tutoring near me
SAT Math test prep can be scary and overwhelming. However, you don't have to do it on your own! Here at Park Tutoring, we offer a range of educational tutoring services. This includes Test Prep, College admission, in-person tutoring, and leadership tutoring. We aim to deliver personalized education services that empower people of all ages to reach their full academic potential, laying a strong foundation for a bright future.
With our online tutoring, you can have all the education you need from any part of the world! We also love sharing helpful resources like eBooks, study guides, and cheat sheets to make your studying easier. Just drop your email or phone number so we can send them your way and keep you updated with more useful tips.
Contact Park Tutoring today to schedule your first session and take the next step toward academic success!