Countless students struggle with math throughout their academic careers. Regardless, math is a huge aspect of the SAT that can add or harm one’s score. Fortunately, the math problems on the SAT are often similar to past tests, displaying the same types of problems. For this article, our fantastic math tutor, Timothy, will be giving you some advice on improving your SAT Math score!
- Get familiar with the testing topics
Timothy asserts that “The first step in improving your SAT math score is to ensure that you’re familiar with the common topics that the test covers.” An example of a frequently observed topic is linear equations. According to Tim, you will see a quick increase in your scores once you have a better understanding of quadratics and SOH CAH TOA. The SAT Math sections are formulaic in their design. Once you are exposed to more of these problems, you will see that most of the problems ask the same questions but with different numbers.
- Practice test-taking skills
After you learned the core topics tested in the SAT Math section, Tim recommends that you improve on your test-taking ability. He says, “Before answering a question, challenge yourself to eliminate answers you know cannot be right.” Furthermore, he suggests that you look for patterns in answer choices to develop guessing strategies. Along with your arithmetical capabilities, you will be able to score well if you can navigate through the pressures of the SAT.
- Figure out which answers serve as a “decoy”
Some SAT multiple-choice answers are designed to deceive you. Whoever sees past these tricks are the ones who will score well. Tim defines these deceptive choices as “decoys.” He gives an example of four choices:
a) 1
b) 5/2
c) 0
d) 2/5
With these choices in mind, Tim would lean towards choices B or D. Why? “If B were the right answer, then D would be a great “decoy” answer. A “decoy” answer is an answer choice that is purposely meant to be similar to the correct answer.” As you can see, the pattern is that B and D are both fractions, but the numbers are reversed. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the answer will be either B or D, but the probability of B or D would be higher than A or C.
The SATs are a critical moment for a high school student, as it is highly considered by admissions counselors at universities. We at Acclaim understand the significance of these tests, which is why we offer an array of services pertaining to the SATs, including the Subject Tests. For more helpful tips from our wonderful tutors like Tim, sign up to arrange a lesson with them. If you’ve been preparing to apply for colleges, read about how to decide on your major and how to achieve a perfect GPA!
