Top 10 Math Concepts on the New Digital SAT

The new digital SAT is a standardized test used to assess college readiness.

The math section of the digital SAT covers a wide range of math concepts, from basic algebra to trigonometry. This blog post will discuss the top 10 math concepts tested on the new digital SAT, and will feature additional information on real-world applications based on my personal understanding of the SAT as a SAT Prep tutor with over three decades worth of experience in this field. 

Top 10 math concepts on the new digital SAT:

1. Linear relationships: Linear relationships are relationships between two variables where the change in one variable is always proportional to the change in the other variable. Linear equations and graphs can represent linear relationships.

2. Quadratic functions: Quadratic functions are functions that a polynomial of the second degree can represent. Quadratic functions are often used to model real-world phenomena, such as an object's motion or a population's growth.

3. Exponential functions: Exponential functions are functions where the output is equal to a constant raised to the power of the input. Exponential functions are used to model growth and decay phenomena.

4. Systems of equations: Systems of equations are two or more equations with two or more unknowns. Systems of equations can be solved using various methods, such as elimination and substitution.

5. Data analysis and statistics: Data analysis and statistics involve collecting, organizing, and interpreting data. Students on the digital SAT will be asked to analyze data sets and draw conclusions from the data.

6. Geometry: Geometry is the study of shapes and space. Students on the digital SAT will be asked to solve problems involving geometric shapes, such as triangles, rectangles, and circles.

7. Trigonometry: Trigonometry is the study of triangles. Students on the digital SAT will be asked to solve problems involving trigonometric ratios, such as sine, cosine, and tangent.

8. Ratios, rates, and proportions: Ratios, rates, and proportions are mathematical relationships between two or more quantities. Students on the digital SAT will be asked to solve problems involving ratios, rates, and proportions.

9. Algebraic expressions: Algebraic expressions are combinations of numbers, variables, and operators. Students on the digital SAT will be asked to simplify and manipulate algebraic expressions.

10. Problem-solving: Problem-solving is applying mathematical concepts to solve real-world problems. Students on the digital SAT will be asked to solve various problem-solving questions.

How to prep for each section:

• Algebra: Review the basics of algebra, such as linear equations, quadratic equations, and systems of equations. Practice solving algebra problems from different sources, such as official College Board practice tests, textbooks, and online resources.

• Advanced Math: Review the more advanced math concepts tested on the SAT, such as functions, inequalities, and probability. Practice solving advanced math problems from different sources.

• Problem-Solving and Data Analysis: Review the problem-solving and data analysis skills tested on the SAT. Practice solving problem-solving and data analysis questions from different sources.

• Geometry and Trigonometry: Review the geometry and trigonometry concepts tested on the SAT. Practice solving geometry and trigonometry problems from different sources.

Which sections have the highest potential for silly mistakes:

• Algebra: Algebra problems can be tricky because they often involve multiple steps. It is important to check your work carefully on algebra problems to avoid making silly mistakes.

• Problem-Solving and Data Analysis: Problem-solving and data analysis questions can be time-consuming, so it is vital to manage your time wisely. It is also important to read the questions carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked before you start answering.

• Geometry and Trigonometry: Geometry and trigonometry problems can be challenging because they involve complex diagrams and calculations. It is essential to be careful when drawing diagrams and calculating geometry and trigonometry problems.

Tips for avoiding silly mistakes on the digital SAT:

• Read the questions carefully. Make sure you understand what is being asked before you start answering.

• Check your work carefully. Make sure that your answers are correct and that you have not made any careless mistakes.

• Use the calculator wisely. The calculator can be a valuable tool on the SAT, but using it correctly can mean the difference between a high score and a mediocre one. Ensure you understand how to use the calculator to solve the problems tested on the SAT.

• Take your time. Don't rush through the test. Take your time and answer each question to the best of your ability.

Conclusion

The top 10 math concepts on the new digital SAT are important because they are foundational for success in college and beyond. And, in case you're wondering where in life these concepts will come of use in the real world, know this: these concepts are used in a variety of fields, such as engineering, science, business, and economics.

Here are some specific examples of how the top 10 math concepts are used in the real world:

• Linear relationships: Linear relationships are used to model the relationship between variables such as price and demand, distance and time, and temperature and pressure.

• Quadratic functions: Quadratic functions are used to model the motion of objects, the growth of populations, and the cost of production.

• Exponential functions: Exponential functions are used to model population growth, disease spread, and radioactive material decay.

• Systems of equations: Systems of equations are used to solve problems in various fields, such as engineering, economics, and finance.

• Data analysis and statistics: Data analysis and statistics are used to make informed decisions in various fields, such as business, government, and healthcare.

• Geometry: Geometry solves problems in various fields, such as architecture, engineering, and design.

• Trigonometry: Trigonometry solves problems in various fields, such as navigation, surveying, and astronomy.

• Ratios, rates, and proportions: Ratios, rates, and proportions are used in various fields, such as cooking, finance, and sports.

• Algebraic expressions: Algebraic expressions are used to represent mathematical relationships in a variety of fields, such as science, engineering, and economics.

• Problem-solving: Problem-solving is an essential skill in all fields. The ability to apply mathematical concepts to solve real-world problems is highly sought-after by employers.

By studying the top 10 math concepts on the new digital SAT, students can prepare themselves for success in college and beyond.