How Hard is SAT Math?

Yo, any advice on the difficulty level of SAT Math questions I should prepare for? I've seen some resources claim their problems are 'the hardest', so I kind of don't know what to expect. Thanks!

The math component of the SAT exam covers a number of topics, and the difficulty can vary depending on your own strengths and weaknesses in specific areas. It contains a mix of both easy and challenging problems, typically increasing in difficulty as you progress through each section.

As of 2024, the SAT has gone fully digital and the math section now consists of two 35-minute modules, with a total of 44 questions. This gives you about 96 seconds per question, or a little over a minute and a half. Topics covered include numbers and operations, algebra and functions, geometry, and data analysis. So, if you’re stronger in algebra but weaker in data analysis, for example, you might find some portions more difficult than others.

Most questions fall within the late high school math curriculum (through Algebra II with a tiny bit of Pre-Calculus). The majority of math questions on the SAT aren't necessarily complicated if you understand the concept, but they can be tricky in how they're worded or presented. Questions might integrate several different concepts together, pushing you to apply multiple skills to solve one problem.

Importantly, while some resources may claim their questions are the hardest, keep in mind that these may be more complicated than what you'd typically encounter on the actual SAT to help you prepare for the most challenging possibilities.

A good approach is to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you might encounter by using the Bluebook™ app which offers a full-length practice test that emulates the exam's structure and question types closely. Developing a good foundation in the areas of math covered on the test, practicing under timed conditions, and reviewing your mistakes are also key strategies. Keep in mind that the best preparation will balance an understanding of the concepts with test-taking strategies.