What Math is on the SAT & ACT?

One question I get asked a lot is what kinds of math are going to be tested on the SAT and the ACT. 

Both tests have a lot of arithmetic and a lot of Algebra 1. Yes, both tests have some Geometry, but while the SAT will give you a box of geometric formulas at the beginning of each section, the ACT is going to expect you to know most of those formulas. For harder formulas, like volume, the ACT will stick them right there in the question. 

Both tests are going to have some Trig, both tests are going to have Prob/Stat, and both tests do have some Algebra 2. But while the SAT only goes up to about the middle of the year Algebra 2, the ACT goes all the way to the end of Algebra 2, getting to that second part of Algebra 2 only in a few of the hardest questions toward the end of the test. 

The point is there’s no Pre-Calc, no Calc, and no reason for you to wait till the end of Algebra 2 to start prepping for these tests or start taking them.

The goal is to finish by the end of junior year, so the sooner you start, the more likely you are to accomplish that goal. If you have more questions about the math section on the SAT & ACT, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 732-556-8220. We’re here to help.