A good SAT math study guide starts with the topics that carry the most points. Algebra and Advanced Math make up about 70% of the section, so study those first, learn the formulas that aren't on the reference sheet, and practice with Desmos and timed sets. Get the free SAT math study guide PDF to keep the plan and checklists in one place.
You don't need to relearn all of high school math to raise your SAT math score. The section tests a predictable set of skills, and the same question types come up again and again.
This guide shows you what to study, in what order, and how to practice. If you want the basics first, such as how the modules and scoring work, read our guide to what's on SAT math. For both sections of the test, see the full SAT study guide.
Get the free SAT math study guide PDF
A printable version with a topic checklist, the 6-week plan, formulas to memorize, Desmos tips, worked examples and a mistake log. Tell us where to send it.
What to Study for SAT Math
SAT math has 44 questions across four content areas. Study them in this order, then adjust based on your own practice test.
| Study order | Questions | Topics to know |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Algebra | 13–15 | Linear equations and inequalities, slope and intercepts, writing equations from word problems, and systems of two equations |
| 2. Advanced Math | 13–15 | Factoring and equivalent expressions, quadratics and their graphs, exponents, exponential functions, and nonlinear systems |
| 3. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis | 5–7 | Ratios, rates, unit conversion, percentages, probability, mean and median, and reading graphs and tables |
| 4. Geometry and Trigonometry | 5–7 | Area and volume, angles, similar and right triangles, sine, cosine and tangent, and circles |
A 6-Week SAT Math Study Plan
This plan assumes about 3 to 4 hours of math study a week. If you're already strong in a topic, give that time to a weaker one.
| Week | Focus | By the end of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Starting point and linear algebra | Take a full Bluebook practice test, review every math miss, and practice linear equations and slope |
| 2 | Systems and word problems | Solve systems by hand and in Desmos, and turn word problems into equations |
| 3 | Quadratics and exponents | Factor, use the quadratic formula and discriminant, and apply the exponent rules |
| 4 | Functions and checkpoint | Practice exponential and nonlinear functions, then take a second practice test |
| 5 | Data analysis and geometry | Cover percentages, probability, statistics, triangles, circles and trigonometry |
| 6 | Timed review | Do timed 22-question sets, redo your mistake log, and take one last practice test early in the week |
Each 22-question set should take 35 minutes, the same as a real module. That's about 1 minute and 35 seconds per question.
SAT Math Formulas to Memorize
A reference sheet is available during the test, with common geometry formulas such as the area of a circle and the volume of a cylinder. These useful formulas aren't all on it, so learn them.
| Formula | What it is |
|---|---|
| Slope | m = (y₂ − y₁) ÷ (x₂ − x₁) |
| Line | y = mx + b, where m is the slope and b is the y-intercept |
| Quadratic formula | x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) ÷ 2a |
| Discriminant | b² − 4ac: positive means two real solutions, zero means one, negative means none |
| Parabola vertex | The vertex of y = ax² + bx + c has x = −b ÷ 2a |
| Circle | (x − h)² + (y − k)² = r², with center (h, k) and radius r |
| Trigonometry | sin = opposite ÷ hypotenuse, cos = adjacent ÷ hypotenuse, tan = opposite ÷ adjacent |
| Percent change | (new − old) ÷ old × 100 |
| Exponential growth | y = a(1 + r)ᵗ, with starting amount a and rate r |
| Exponent rules | xᵃ · xᵇ = xᵃ⁺ᵇ, and (xᵃ)ᵇ = xᵃᵇ |
How to Use Desmos on SAT Math
The Desmos calculator built into Bluebook can save you time on many algebra questions. Practice these four moves until they feel natural:
- Solve a system: type both equations and click where the lines cross.
- Find solutions of a quadratic: graph it and click where it crosses the x-axis.
- Find a vertex: graph the parabola and click its highest or lowest point.
- Check your answer: graph both sides of an equation, or type in an answer choice to test it.
SAT Math Worked Examples
These original examples show the kinds of skills the test uses. Try each one before you read the solution.
If 2x + y = 7 and x − y = 2, what is the value of x?
x = 3. Add the equations to cancel y: 3x = 9, so x = 3. You can also graph both lines in Desmos, which cross at (3, 1).
The equation x² + 6x + k = 0 has exactly one real solution. What is the value of k?
k = 9. One real solution means the discriminant is zero: 6² − 4(1)(k) = 0, so 36 = 4k and k = 9.
A jacket costs $80, and the price rises by 25%. What is the new price?
$100. Multiply by 1.25: 80 × 1.25 = 100.
What are the center and radius of the circle (x − 2)² + (y + 3)² = 16?
Center (2, −3), radius 4. Compare it with (x − h)² + (y − k)² = r². Watch the signs: y + 3 means k = −3. The radius is the square root of 16.
Common SAT Math Mistakes
- Answering the wrong question. You solve for x, but the question asks for 2x + 1. Reread the question before you choose.
- Rushing the early questions. Questions run from easiest to hardest, and your first module decides which second module you get.
- Sign errors. Negative signs cause many lost points, especially when you distribute or use the circle equation.
- Ignoring Desmos. Students often spend two minutes on algebra that a graph can solve much faster.
- Practicing without reviewing. Keep a mistake log with the topic and why you missed each question, then redo those questions a week later.
Free SAT Math Study Resources
- Bluebook practice tests: full-length adaptive tests in the app you'll use on test day, with Desmos built in.
- Official SAT Prep on Khan Academy: free lessons and practice by skill.
- My Practice: the College Board's practice review tools and student question bank.
- LearnerPros SAT math study guide PDF: our printable plan, checklists, formulas and mistake log.
Stuck on the same questions? See how online SAT math tutoring works: step-by-step lessons, timed practice tests with a predicted score, and tutors to help when you're stuck. Free for 7 days.
SAT Math Study Guide FAQ
What should I study for SAT math?
Start with Algebra and Advanced Math, which make up about 70% of the section. Then cover Problem-Solving and Data Analysis and Geometry and Trigonometry. Take a practice test first so you can spend most of your time on the skills you miss.
Is there a free SAT math study guide PDF?
Yes. LearnerPros has a free printable SAT math study guide PDF that we send to your email. It has a topic checklist, a 6-week plan, formulas to memorize, Desmos tips, worked examples and a mistake log.
How long should I study for SAT math?
Many students study for 6 to 12 weeks. The right length depends on the gap between your practice score and your goal. A small gap may need only a few weeks, while a large one usually needs longer.
What formulas do I need to memorize for SAT math?
A reference sheet gives you common geometry formulas, but not everything. Memorize slope, slope-intercept form, the quadratic formula, the discriminant, the circle equation, SOH-CAH-TOA, percent change and the exponent rules.
Can I use a calculator for all of SAT math?
Yes. A calculator is allowed on every math question. Bluebook has a built-in Desmos graphing calculator, and you can also bring an approved calculator of your own.
Is SAT math hard?
It tests a predictable set of skills, mostly from algebra and advanced math, and the question types repeat. The hardest part for many students is working accurately under time pressure, with about 1 minute and 35 seconds per question.
Get help raising your SAT math score
LearnerOS, the LearnerPros learning platform, takes you through SAT math one lesson at a time, with mastery quizzes, flashcards, timed practice tests and tutors to help along the way. Try it free for 7 days.
SAT and Bluebook are trademarks of the College Board, which is not affiliated with LearnerPros and does not endorse this guide. Desmos is a trademark of its owner.