Because the two math sections make up 50% of your total test score, it’s important to prepare in order to get a high score. The best way to prepare is by knowing what topics to focus on.
College Board, the maker of the SAT, breaks the two math sections of the SAT (calculator/non-calculator) into four main areas:
- Heart of Algebra
- Problem Solving and Data Analysis
- Passport to Advanced Math
- Additional Topics in Math
These broad areas are great for categorizing questions but aren’t so great for detailed studying and knowing what to prepare for. Part 1 of this two-part blog series will explore the topics in “Heart of Algebra” and “Problem Solving and Data Analysis.”
Heart of Algebra
Linear Equations and Inequalities
- Solve linear equations and inequalities
- Make connections between tables, algebraic representations, and graphs
- Interpret, build, and solve linear equations, expressions, and inequalities
Linear Functions
- Create a linear function based on a linear relationship between two quantities
- Interpret the variables and constants in linear functions
- Make connections between tables, algebraic representations, and graphs
Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
- Interpret, build, and solve systems of two linear equations and systems of linear inequalities
- Make connections between tables, algebraic representations, and graphs
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
Collecting and Interpreting Data
- Use statistics to investigate measurements and evaluate reports
One-Variable Data
- Make inferences about simple data sets represented in tables or graphs
- Calculate, interpret, and compare measures of center and spread including mean, median, and range
Percentages
- Solve problems involving percentages
Probability
- Calculate conditional probabilities and summarize relative frequencies based on one- and two-way tables and other representations
Proportional Relationships
- Solve problems using ratios and rates
- Solve problems relating to unit conversions and measurement quantities
Two-Variable Data
- Use linear, quadratic, and exponential models to explain how variables are related in a scatter plot
- Determine the key features of a graph
- Compare exponential growth with linear growth
- Interpret a line of best fit, including the slope and axis intercepts
Want more? Check out tomorrow’s blog post SAT Math Section: What to Prepare For (Part 2).
