Complete SAT Math Section Overview
The Digital SAT Math section consists of 44 questions to be completed in 70 minutes, divided into two modules of 22 questions each (35 minutes per module). The section is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of Module 2 adjusts based on your performance in Module 1.
SAT Math Content Areas
1. Heart of Algebra (35% of questions)
This is the most heavily weighted area on the SAT Math section, focusing on:
- Linear equations and inequalities: Solving single-variable and multi-step equations
- Systems of equations: Solving using substitution, elimination, or graphing
- Linear functions: Understanding slope, y-intercept, and graphing lines
- Absolute value equations: Solving and graphing absolute value functions
Key Formulas - Algebra:
- Slope formula: m = (y₂ - y₁)/(x₂ - x₁)
- Slope-intercept form: y = mx + b
- Point-slope form: y - y₁ = m(x - x₁)
- Standard form: Ax + By = C
2. Passport to Advanced Math (35% of questions)
Advanced Math questions test more complex algebraic concepts:
- Quadratic functions: Factoring, graphing parabolas, using the quadratic formula
- Exponential functions: Growth and decay problems
- Polynomial operations: Adding, subtracting, multiplying polynomials
- Radical and rational expressions: Simplifying and solving
- Function notation: Evaluating and composing functions
Key Formulas - Advanced Math:
- Quadratic formula: x = [-b ± √(b² - 4ac)] / 2a
- Exponential growth: A = P(1 + r)ᵗ
- Exponential decay: A = P(1 - r)ᵗ
- Vertex form: y = a(x - h)² + k
3. Problem Solving and Data Analysis (15% of questions)
These questions focus on quantitative reasoning and interpretation:
- Ratios and proportions: Setting up and solving proportion problems
- Percentages: Percent increase/decrease, compound interest
- Unit conversions: Converting between different units of measurement
- Statistics: Mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation
- Data interpretation: Reading graphs, charts, and tables
- Probability: Basic probability calculations
4. Geometry and Trigonometry (15% of questions)
Geometric concepts and basic trigonometry:
- Area and perimeter: Triangles, rectangles, circles
- Volume and surface area: Rectangular prisms, cylinders, spheres
- Angles: Complementary, supplementary, vertical angles
- Triangles: Pythagorean theorem, special right triangles
- Circles: Radius, diameter, circumference, area, arc length
- Trigonometry: Sine, cosine, tangent, and the unit circle
Key Formulas - Geometry:
- Area of circle: A = πr²
- Circumference: C = 2πr or C = πd
- Pythagorean theorem: a² + b² = c²
- Area of triangle: A = ½bh
- Volume of cylinder: V = πr²h
Essential SAT Math Strategies
1. Use the Built-in Calculator Wisely
The Desmos calculator is available for all questions, but knowing when to use it is important:
- Use it for: Complex calculations, graphing functions, checking your work
- Don't rely on it for: Simple arithmetic, mental math, basic algebra
- Practice with Desmos: Familiarize yourself with its features before test day
- Know shortcuts: Learn Desmos keyboard shortcuts for efficiency
2. Plug in Answer Choices
When solving equations is complex, try substituting answer choices:
- Start with choice B or C (middle values)
- Determine if you need a larger or smaller value
- This strategy works especially well for "what is the value" questions
3. Draw Diagrams
For geometry problems without diagrams:
- Sketch the scenario described in the problem
- Label all given information
- Add any angle or length relationships you know
- Visual representation often reveals the solution path
4. Work Backwards from the Answer
If a problem asks "which of the following," test each option:
- Eliminate clearly wrong answers first
- Test remaining choices systematically
- This is often faster than solving from scratch
5. Manage Your Time
- Per module: 35 minutes for 22 questions ≈ 1.5 minutes per question
- Skip and return: Don't get stuck on hard questions
- Easy wins first: Answer all questions you know quickly
- Flag for review: Mark questions to revisit if time permits
Common SAT Math Mistakes to Avoid
1. Misreading the Question
- Read carefully what the question is asking for
- Watch for questions asking for 2x instead of x
- Note if the answer should be in specific units
2. Calculation Errors
- Double-check arithmetic, especially with negative numbers
- Verify calculator entries before hitting enter
- Use estimation to check if your answer is reasonable
3. Forgetting Formulas
- Memorize key formulas not provided on the test
- The test provides some formulas, but not all
- Create a formula sheet during your preparation
4. Not Using Process of Elimination
- Eliminate obviously wrong answers first
- Even eliminating one option improves your odds
- There's no guessing penalty on the SAT
SAT Math Formulas to Memorize
Critical Formulas (Not Provided on Test)
- Distance formula: d = √[(x₂-x₁)² + (y₂-y₁)²]
- Midpoint formula: M = ((x₁+x₂)/2, (y₁+y₂)/2)
- Slope formula: m = (y₂-y₁)/(x₂-x₁)
- Quadratic formula: x = [-b ± √(b²-4ac)] / 2a
- Sum/Product of roots: Sum = -b/a, Product = c/a
- Compound interest: A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt)
- Simple interest: I = Prt
- Percent change: (New - Old)/Old × 100%
How to Practice SAT Math Effectively
1. Start with Diagnostic Testing
- Take a full-length practice test to identify weak areas
- Review every mistake to understand the concept tested
- Create a priority list of topics to study
2. Practice by Topic
- Focus on one content area at a time
- Complete 10-20 problems per topic
- Master fundamentals before moving to harder problems
3. Time Yourself
- Practice individual modules under timed conditions
- Learn to pace yourself at ~1.5 minutes per question
- Identify which question types take you longest
4. Review Mistakes Thoroughly
- Understand why your answer was wrong
- Identify the correct approach to the problem
- Redo mistakes a few days later to ensure mastery
Frequently Asked Questions
How is SAT Math different in the Digital SAT?
The Digital SAT Math section is shorter (70 minutes vs 80 minutes) and adaptive - the difficulty of the second module adjusts based on your performance in the first module. You have access to a built-in Desmos calculator for all questions, and questions are generally more focused with less extraneous information.
What math topics are most important for the SAT?
Algebra (linear equations, systems, inequalities) makes up about 35% of questions. Advanced Math (quadratics, exponentials, functions) is another 35%. Problem Solving & Data Analysis and Geometry & Trigonometry each comprise about 15%. Focus your study on algebra and advanced math for maximum impact.
Can I use a calculator on all SAT Math questions?
Yes! With the Digital SAT, a built-in Desmos graphing calculator is available for all math questions. However, you should still practice mental math and estimation, as these skills help you work faster and verify your calculator results.
How can I improve my SAT Math score quickly?
Focus on mastering the most common question types: linear equations, quadratic functions, and percentage problems. Take timed practice sections to improve your pacing, review every mistake to understand your errors, and memorize key formulas. Most students can improve 50-100 points with targeted practice.