A Guide to All 4 Areas
The Digital SAT Math section tests your ability to solve problems, think logically, and apply mathematical concepts you’ve learned in school. The best news for many students? You can use a calculator on the entire section!
Mastering the sat math section is about understanding the four main types of math tested and knowing the right strategies to tackle them. This guide will break down each area, show you sat example tests questions, and give you the tips you need to conquer the math portion of the test.
The Big Picture: What is the Math Section?
- Time: 70 minutes (two 35-minute modules)
- Questions: 44 total
- Format: A mix of multiple-choice and “student-produced response” (where you type in your own answer).
- Calculator Policy: Allowed for all 44 questions. You can use your own approved calculator or the powerful Desmos graphing calculator built into the test application.
The section tests your skills in four main categories. Let’s explore each one.
1. Algebra
This is one of the largest and most foundational parts of the SAT Math section, making up about 35% of the questions.
- What it tests: Solving linear equations and inequalities, working with systems of equations, and interpreting linear functions in different contexts.
Top Strategy: Isolate the Variable
Your primary goal in most algebra problems is to solve for a variable (like x or y). Remember to perform the same operation on both sides of the equation to keep it balanced as you work to get the variable by itself.
SAT example test question:
Question: If 5x+10=25, what is the value of x+2?
A) 3
B) 5
C) 7
D) 15
Answer: B) 5
Solution: First, solve for x:
5x=25−10
5x=15
x=3
Then, find the value of x+2:
3+2=5
2. Advanced Math
This area also makes up about 35% of the test and builds on your algebra skills, moving into more complex equations and functions.
- What it tests: Working with quadratic equations, exponential functions, polynomial expressions, and other nonlinear functions.
Top Strategy: Know How to Factor
Being able to quickly factor quadratic equations (expressions in the form ax2+bx+c) is a critical skill. It’s often the fastest way to find the solutions to a nonlinear equation.
SAT example test question:
Question: What is one of the solutions to the equation x2−3x−10=0?
A) -5
B) -2
C) 3
D) 10
Answer: B) -2
Solution: Factor the quadratic equation: (x−5)(x+2)=0. The values of x that make the equation true are 5 and -2.
3. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
This section, which is about 15% of the math test, is all about real-world math. It tests your quantitative literacy and ability to work with data.
- What it tests: Calculating ratios, rates, and percentages; and interpreting information from tables, charts, and graphs.
Top Strategy: Read Carefully and Check Your Units
These questions are often presented as word problems. Read the question carefully to understand exactly what it’s asking for. Pay close attention to units (like feet vs. inches, or seconds vs. minutes) and make sure your final answer is in the correct unit.
SAT example test question:
Question: A survey asked 500 people if they owned a pet. Of those surveyed, 150 people said they owned a dog. What percentage of the people surveyed owned a dog?
A) 15%
B) 30%
C) 35%
D) 50%
Answer: B) 30%
Solution: (Number of dog owners / Total people surveyed) * 100 = (150 / 500) * 100 = 0.3 * 100 = 30%.
4. Geometry and Trigonometry
The final 15% of the math section covers a range of geometric shapes and trigonometric principles.
- What it tests: Area and volume, angles, triangles, circles, and basic trigonometry (SOHCAHTOA).
Top Strategy: Use the Provided Reference Sheet
The Digital SAT provides you with a reference sheet that includes many key formulas for area, volume, circles, and triangles. Don’t waste time trying to memorize them all! Know where the reference sheet is and how to use the formulas it provides.
SAT example test question:
Question: A circle has a radius of 5. What is its area?
A) 5π
B) 10π
C) 25π
D) 50π
Answer: C) 25π
Solution: The formula for the area of a circle is A = πr². With a radius (r) of 5, the area is A = π(5)² = 25π.
The best way to get comfortable with the sat math section is to practice consistently. Use a digital sat practice test to see how these different question types appear and to build the confidence you need to succeed.
Try our free, section-based Digital SAT Math Practice Test and see where you stand!”
