10 Must-Know SAT Math Tips to Boost Your Score (Fast)

1. Master the Embedded Desmos Calculator

This is the single biggest cheat code on the Digital SAT. The graphing calculator is built right into the testing app.

• The Hack: Don't solve systems of equations (e.g., $x + y = 10$, $2x - y = 5$) by hand. Type them into Desmos. It will literally show you the intersection point.

• Why it works: It turns complex algebra problems into 5-second visual checks.

2. The "Plug and Chug" Method (Backsolving)

If a question asks "What is the value of $x$?" and gives you four numbers as options, stop doing algebra.

• The Hack: Take answer choice B or C and plug it into the equation. If it works, you’re done. If it’s too small, go higher.

• Why it works: It bypasses the need to isolate variables and avoids algebraic mistakes.

3. Read the Last Sentence First

The SAT loves to trap students who go on autopilot. You solve for $x$, find $x=4$, and circle answer A.

• The Trap: The question actually asked for $2x + 1$.

• The Fix: Before you bubble in an answer, re-read the final sentence. Double-check what value the question actually demands.

4. Pick Your Own Numbers

Variables in the question and variables in the answer choices? That’s a recipe for a headache.

• The Hack: Replace $x$ with an easy number (like 2 or 3—avoid 0 and 1 as they have weird properties). Solve the problem with your number to get a target answer. Then, plug your number into the answer choices to see which one matches.

• Why it works: It turns algebra into simple arithmetic.

5. Memorize the "Reference Sheet" Gaps

The SAT gives you a reference sheet with basic geometry formulas (area of a circle, volume of a prism). Do not waste time looking these up.

• The Gap: They don't give you the Distance Formula, Midpoint Formula, or the Quadratic Formula.

• The Fix: Memorize these three before test day. You can’t afford to blank on them.

6. Draw It Out (Even if You Can’t Draw)

If a problem describes a shape but doesn't show it, sketch it immediately.

• The Hack: If the problem says "Triangle ABC is isosceles," draw it. Label the sides.

• Why it works: Your brain processes visual information faster than text. Visualizing the problem often reveals the solution instantly.

7. Know the "Zero Slope" and "Undefined Slope" Rules

These are easy points if you know the vocabulary.

• Horizontal Lines ($y = 5$): Have a slope of 0.

• Vertical Lines ($x = 5$): Have an undefined slope.

• The Hack: If you see "undefined slope," visualize a vertical wall. The equation is always $x = \text{something}$.

8. Use the "Flag" Feature

The Digital SAT allows you to flag questions to review later.

• The Strategy: If you stare at a problem for 30 seconds and have no idea how to start, flag it and move on.

• Why it works: All questions are worth roughly the same points. Don't burn 5 minutes on a hard question and run out of time for three easy ones at the end.

9. Identify "Exponential Growth" Keywords

You will see questions about populations, bank accounts, or bacteria growing.

• The Formula: $$y = a(1 + r)^t$$

• The Hack:

  • $a$ = Initial amount (start value).

  • $r$ = The rate (5% becomes 0.05).

  • $t$ = Time.

  • If the problem says "doubles every year," your base is 2. If it "decreases by 20%," your base is 0.80.

10. Ballpark Your Answer (Estimation)

Before you calculate, look at the diagram or the numbers.

• The Hack: If you are calculating the area of a room and your answer is 5,000,000 square feet, you did something wrong. If an angle looks obtuse (wider than 90°), eliminate any answer choice below 90.

• Why it works: It acts as a sanity check against calculator typos.

Now that you have the tips, make you sure don't run out of time and learn how to Crush the SAT Math Section by Beating the Clock.