The SAT Math sections consist of one 25-minute section with 20 questions, where no calculators are allowed, and one 55-minute section with 38 questions, where calculators are allowed. Around 20% of problems are gridded-response questions, and around 80% are multiple choice. Students can score anywhere from 200 to 800 points on the Math section (including both the No-Calculator and Calculator sections). In addition, all questions in the Calculator and No-Calculator sections stem from four categories created by the College Board: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math, and Additional Topics in Math.
Heart of Algebra questions can involve anything concerning linear equations, or systems of linear equations. Students may be asked to create equations of their own to solve for a variable given a situation, or interpret the relationship between two linear equations.
Problem Solving and Data Analysis questions ask students to solve problems using ratios, proportions, percentages, probability and unit conversions. They also involve interpreting data (spread, averages, frequency), graphs (line of best fit, exponential/linear growth,), tables, and in some cases, linear or exponential equations in relation to their visual representations.
Passport to Advanced Math encompasses all questions involving quadratic equations. This can include simplifying or factoring, solving for roots/zeros, manipulating radicals, or interpreting graphs of quadratic equations. Students will also be asked to create equations, but they will be more complex and often quadratic in nature.
Additional Topics in Math contains a variety of topics that don’t quite fit into the other three categories. These topics include 2-D and 3-D geometry (trigonometric functions, congruence/similarity, the Pythagorean Theorem, degrees and radians, arc length, and circles) and complex/imaginary numbers.
Overall, the SAT Math section is testing for not just understanding of all the concepts above, but students’ ability to apply them to real world situations. Similar to fully learning a new language, the SAT Math sections demand math comprehension as well as “math fluency.”
Nate Hall, Tutoring Coordinator
nate@testprepchicago.com
(312) 848-1266