How to Improve Your SAT Math Score: 10 Strategies That Work
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To raise your SAT Math score, focus on Algebra and Advanced Math, which make up about 70% of the section, learn to use the built-in Desmos graphing calculator, and practice under timed conditions. Review every mistake by topic, because most students lose points on the same few skills again and again.
What SAT Math covers
| Content domain | Share of questions | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra | About 35% | Linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations |
| Advanced Math | About 35% | Quadratics, exponential and nonlinear functions |
| Problem-Solving and Data Analysis | About 15% | Ratios, percentages, statistics, probability |
| Geometry and Trigonometry | About 15% | Area, volume, circles, right triangles, trigonometry |
10 strategies to raise your score
- Master linear equations and functions first. They appear throughout Algebra and Advanced Math.
- Learn Desmos. The built-in graphing calculator can solve systems, find intercepts and check answers in seconds.
- Use the reference sheet. Formulas for area, volume and special right triangles are provided, so you do not need to memorize them.
- Read the last line of the question first, so you know exactly what to solve for.
- Plug in the answer choices when solving directly would take longer.
- Pick simple numbers for variables to test expressions and answer choices.
- Watch units and wording such as “percent increase” or “in terms of x.”
- For student-produced responses, check the answer format, including fractions and negative numbers.
- Make module 1 count by working carefully, because it decides whether you get the harder module 2.
- Keep an error log. Note the topic and reason for every mistake, then drill those topics.
A weekly practice routine
- Two or three focused practice sessions on your weakest topics.
- One timed module to build pacing.
- One full-length practice test every two to three weeks, followed by a full review.