Hey gang! I'm starting to study for the SAT and I'm a bit overwhelmed. Are there particular math formulas that I should make sure to memorize? Which ones are most commonly used or tested on the SAT? Any advice for tackling this part of studying would be much appreciated!
The SAT Math sections (both of the 35-minute modules) cover a wide range of math topics, and some formulas will come in handy. You’ll find that many of these formulas are actually provided in the beginning of the math sections, such as the area of a circle and special right triangles. However, being prepared and familiar with these formulas can save you time, reducing the need to constantly refer back to the reference sheet.
Some key formulas and concepts to know would be:
- Quadratic formula: This is used to solve quadratic equations, and it's definitely something you'll need. It's given by: x = [-b ± sqrt(b² - 4ac)] / 2a
- Slope of a line: Given two points (x₁,y₁) and (x₂,y₂), the slope of the line connecting these points is: (y₂-y₁) / (x₂-x₁)
- Slope-intercept form: This is the formula y = mx + b, where m is the slope and b is the y-intercept (the point where the line crosses the y-axis).
- Triangle rules: You should know about Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²), the formula for area (1/2bh), and the sum of the angles of a triangle (180°).
- Circle formulas: For any circle, it's useful to know the formula for area (πr²) and circumference (2πr).
- Probability and Statistics: Basic understanding of mean, median, mode, range, probability, and combinations can come in handy.
- Exponents and radicals: It's important to understand how to convert back and forth between these two, and the rules for multiplying and dividing terms with exponents.
Remember, understanding these formulas is just the first step. You'll also need to know when to apply them and how to use them to solve problems. So the key is to practice, practice, practice. Work through as many practice problems and practice tests as you can. This will help you understand how these formulas are applied in different contexts.
Finally, remember that the SAT does not just test your knowledge of math formulas, but you will also be tested on your reasoning and problem-solving skills. So think of these formulas as tools to help you solve problems, not just things to memorize for the test.
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