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Effective SAT Math Preparation Strategies

Aug 31, 2024

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SAT Math Tips and Strategies

Overview

  • Presenter has achieved perfect scores on SAT Math sections.
  • Video offers 54 tips and strategies.
  • Tips are demonstrated using questions from the digital SAT practice test.

Key Tips and Tricks

Quick Calculations

  1. Percent Calculations:

    • Example: 10% of 470 = 0.1 * 470 = 47.
    • Answer: B.

  2. Equation Solutions:

    • Check for common terms in solutions.
    • Example: 4X + 6 = 18 → Subtract 6, find 4X = 12.
    • No need to solve for X if 4X is in all options.
    • Answer: C.

  3. Inequalities:

    • Identify keywords to save time.
    • Example: Total cost = $25 + $10 per hour (H), max $75.
    • Write: 25 + 10T <= 75.
    • Answer: D.

  4. Functions and Values:

    • Example: G(x) = x² + 9, find when G(x) = 25.
    • Solve: 25 = x² + 9 → x² = 16 → x = 4.
    • Answer: A.*

Probability and Units

  1. Probability:

    • 14-sided die, probability of rolling a 2 = 1/14.
    • Answer: A.

  2. Unit Conversion:

    • Convert rates effectively.
    • Example: 42 posters/min to posters/hour.
    • Calculation: 42 * 60 = 2520 posters/hour.
    • Answer: 2520.*

Algebra and Geometry

  1. Function Values:

    • Substitute values directly.
    • Example: F(x) = 7x + 2, find when x = 4.
    • Calculation: 7*4 + 2 = 30.
    • Answer: 30.

  2. Equation Representation:

    • Understand total representation in equations.
    • Example: Assignment worth 70 points, X for 1-point, Y for 3-point.
    • Equation: X + 3Y = 70.
    • Answer: D.

  3. Similar Triangles:

    • Use given angles to determine measures.
    • Example: M = 53 degrees, similar to triangle Q.
    • Answer: B.*

System of Equations

  1. Systems and Solutions:

    • Substitute known values for quicker solutions.
    • Example: Substitute y = -3x.
    • Solve for X: 4X - 3X = 15, X = 15.
    • Answer: C.

  2. Scatter Plots and Models:

    • Determine slopes and y-intercepts visually and mathematically.
    • Choose model fitting data pattern.

  3. Polynomial Graphs:

    • Count zero points for solutions.
    • Example: F(x) = ax³ + bx² + cx + d, count intercepts.

Word Problems and Graphing

  1. Word Problem Efficiency:

    • Write equations as you interpret the problem.
    • Example: Vivian spent $71, hats $3, cupcakes $1.
    • Equation: 3(10) + C = 71 → C = 41.

  2. Graphing Calculator Use:

    • Use calculators to solve complex equations efficiently.
    • Check intercepts and factor solutions visually.

  3. Exponential Growth:

    • Recognize and apply growth formulas.
    • Example: 300,000 doubles every 3 hours, 15 hours later.
    • Formula: 300,000 * 2^(15/3) = 9.6 million.
    • Answer: D.*

Simplifying and Interpreting

  1. Simplifying Expressions:

    • Factor out common terms.
    • Example: Simplify 6x⁸y² + 12x²y².
    • Answer: C.

  2. Equation Interpretation:

    • Understand the meaning of coefficients and variables.
    • Example: Trees per hectare interpretation.
    • Check setup consistency in context.

Summary

  • Focus on efficiency and understanding underlying principles.
  • Utilize graphing tools where applicable for accuracy.
  • Recognize patterns and standard forms for quick solutions.

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