3. Math: Strategy Recap

SAT® Math also has four domains: Algebra (the largest), Advanced Math (functions, quadratics, exponents), Problem-Solving & Data Analysis (percents, rates, statistics), and Geometry & Trigonometry.

Two strategies turn hard problems into easy arithmetic, because the questions are multiple choice:

• Backsolve. If the question asks for a value and the choices are numbers, plug the choices in (start in the middle). The one that works is the answer.
• Plug in numbers. If the question and choices contain variables, pick a simple number (like \(x = 2\); avoid 0 and 1) and compare results.

Test-day habits that save points:

• Read the last line. The question may want \(x + 3\), not \(x\).
• Use the calculator wisely -- it is allowed throughout, but setting up the problem matters more.
• Estimate to eliminate answers that are clearly too big or too small.