Here’s What You Need to Know About the SAT Math Section
Knowing what to expect on a test is one of the most important elements of preparation. This guide focuses specifically on the Math section of the digital SAT. We’ll go over the structure of the section, give an overview of the content tested, and discuss some key strategies to help you succeed.
If you’re looking for an overview of the entire digital SAT, we recommend checking out our Guide to the Digital SAT.
How long is the math section?
The Math Section of the digital SAT is 70 minutes long with 44 total questions. It is divided into two equal modules of 35 minutes with 22 questions each.
| Module | TIME | NUMBER OF QUESTIONS |
|---|---|---|
|
Module 1
|
35 minutes |
22 questions |
|
Module 2
|
35 minutes |
22 questions |
|
TOTAL
|
70 minutes |
44 questions |
Are all of the questions multiple-choice?
No. In fact, each module contains two question types. Around 75% of the questions (14-16 per module) are multiple-choice with four answer options to choose from. The remaining 25% of questions (8-12 per module) are student-produced response questions.
Are the questions arranged in a specific order?
Yes. The questions within each module are arranged roughly in order of difficulty with easier questions at the beginning and harder questions towards the end of the module.
What is Computer Adaptive Testing, and how does it work within the Math section?
The digital SAT is a computer adaptive test, which means that the test adjusts to the level of the test-taker.
The digital SAT is a section adaptive test. Module 1 of the Math section contains a combination of easy, medium, and hard questions, with a medium average difficulty. Module 2 will either have a higher proportion of easy or hard questions, based on the student’s performance in Module 1. In other words, students with a stronger performance in Module 1 will see questions targeted to a higher level of difficulty in Module 2.
Can I use a calculator on the test?
Yes. Calculators are permitted for the entire Math section. Students can bring their own calculators or use the built-in graphing calculator (Desmos) on the testing platform. For more information, please see Which Calculator Can I Use on the Digital SAT?
What tools are available during the Math section?
Students will be able to use a calculator and scratch paper. They will also be able to see a timer, eliminate answer choices, and flag questions to review later. A formula sheet will also be provided in the testing application.
Which concepts are covered on the Math section of the digital SAT?
The topics covered in the Math Section are:
- Algebra (~35% of the section | 13–14 questions overall)
- Advanced math (~35% of the section | 13–15 questions overall)
- Problem solving and data analysis (~15% of the section | 5–7 questions overall)
- Geometry and trigonometry (~15% of the section | 5–7 questions overall)
Algebra
Students are expected to analyze and solve linear equations and inequalities, as well as analyze and solve systems of equations and inequalities.
Advanced Math
Students are expected to solve and analyze equivalent expressions, nonlinear equations in one variable, and systems of nonlinear equations. Note: nonlinear functions include quadratic, polynomial, exponential, absolute value, rational, and radical functions.
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
Students are expected to solve and use percentages, proportions, ratios, rates, and interpret data. They need to be able to compute probability, conditional probability, and evaluate statistical claims. Additionally, this may see questions regarding calculating and comparing mean, median, mode, range, and standard deviation of data.
Geometry and Trigonometry
Students are expected to solve perimeter, area, and volume problems for different shapes as well as answer questions about angles, triangles, right triangles, trigonometry and circles.
How should I prepare for the digital SAT Math?
Practice, practice, practice. Completing practice tests and targeted practice exercises are the best ways to familiarize yourself with the SAT and grow your knowledge of the concepts tested.
Once you complete a practice test, review your results to determine which areas you excelled in and which areas need the most improvement. Then, focus on the areas that need improvement. If you need improvement across multiple areas, prioritize Algebra and Advanced Math concepts, because they make up the majority of the test.
What are some basic strategies I can use on the Math section?
Pacing
You need to average about 1.59 minutes per question (approximately 1 minute and 35 seconds per question). As a result, be sure to keep an eye on the time to make sure you are staying on track. When you have completed your 11th problem, you should have at least 17.5 minutes remaining. Remember, there will be a timer available to you while you are taking the test.
Flag Questions
To maintain proper pacing, flag any questions you don’t understand how to do right away and come back later if there is time remaining in the module. You do not want to spend too much time on a question you do not know how to do until you’ve answered all of the questions that you do know how to do.
Use The Answer Choices
When you feel stuck on a problem, look at the answer choices to see if they can provide some direction and insight as to what the question is asking of you. When it makes sense with the problem, plug in the answer choices.
Eliminate Answer Choices
Are there any choices that can easily be eliminated to give you a better chance of getting the answer correctly? For example, eliminate answer choices that are clearly too large or too small.
When should I start preparing for the SAT?
To give yourself ample preparation time, you should begin your SAT prep in the spring of your sophomore year or the following summer, so that you are ready to take the test in the fall or early spring of your junior year. Since the Math section focuses heavily on Algebra and Advanced Math, it’s ideal to have completed at least one semester of Algebra 2 before taking the SAT. Remember, you can take the SAT multiple times. Test Innovators recommends setting a goal of finishing testing before the start of your senior year, so that you can focus fully on your applications.
Start preparing for the digital SAT today!
Keenan Harris
Keenan has over ten years of experience in teaching, tutoring, and helping students build confidence for tests such as the ISEE, SSAT, PSAT, ACT, and SAT. He holds a Bachelors of Science in Mathematics and Education from Wayland Baptist University. In his free time, Keenan enjoys sports, running, and playing video games with his family.
Originally published on May 15, 2023. Updated on December 6, 2024.
