Math Section
- Draw Pictures
- Apply Logic
- Answer the Question That They Ask You
- Check the Choices
- Pick Numbers for the Variables
- Skip Around
- Read the Questions Carefully
- Look for "New Operations"
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Multiple Choice Versus Student-Produced Response
- Practice Questions
- Answer Explanations
Terms You'll Need to Understand
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Absolute value
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Acute angle
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Adjacent angle
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Arc
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Area
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Associative Property
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Average
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Base of a triangle
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Circumference
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Commutative Property
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Complementary angle
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Congruent
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Coordinate Plane
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Denominator
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Diameter
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Distributive Property
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Divisible
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Domain
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Equilateral triangle
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Exponent
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Factor
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Function
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Greatest Common Factor (GCF)
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Hypotenuse
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Improper fractions
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Inequality
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Integer
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Intersection
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Isosceles triangle
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Least Common Multiple (LCM)
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Line
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Line segment
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Median
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Midpoint
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Mixed numbers
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Mode
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Numerator
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Obtuse angle
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Parallel
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Perimeter
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Percent
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Point
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Prime number
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Proportion
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Pythagorean Theorem
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Quadrilateral
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Radius
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Range
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Ratio
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Reciprocal
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Right angle
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Sequence
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Set
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Similar triangles
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Slope
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Square root
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System of equations
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Tangent
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Transversal
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Vertical angle
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Volume
Concepts You'll Need to Master
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Basic arithmetic operations on real numbers, including integers and fractions
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Properties of integers
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Calculating averages and determining median and mode
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Translating word problems
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Simplifying algebraic expressions
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Factoring polynomials
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Solving algebraic equations and inequalities
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Working with number sets and sequences
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Properties of parallel and perpendicular lines
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Relationships between angles in geometric figures
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Properties of triangles, polygons, and circles, including perimeter, area, and circumference
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Simple coordinate geometry, including using slope and midpoint formulas
The PSAT Math Test is designed to test your ability to reason mathematically, to understand basic math terminology, and to recall basic mathematic formulas and principles. You should be able to solve problems and apply relevant mathematics concepts in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Remember these general strategies when approaching PSAT math questions.
Draw Pictures
It really helps sometimes to visualize the problem. This strategy should not take a lot of time, and can prevent careless errors. Sometimes you are given a figure or a table; sometimes you just have to make your own. Use the blank space that is available in the math section of the test booklet.