The Digital SAT Math section is designed to assess students' mathematical skills and logical reasoning abilities. It consists of two modules, each containing 22 questions and lasting 35 minutes. The difficulty level of the questions in the second module is adjusted based on the student's performance in the first module. The questions in this section are categorized into four main areas: Algebra, Advanced Math, Problem-Solving and Data Analysis, and Geometry and Trigonometry.
The question types are divided into two categories: multiple-choice and student-produced response (grid-in) questions. About 25% of the questions are grid-in, while 75% are multiple-choice.
Since some students face difficulties in the Math section, they may not achieve a high score. Scoring high on the Digital SAT Math section requires a strategic and goal-oriented preparation approach. Taking the right steps during the preparation phase and on the exam day can enhance your mathematical skills and help you develop additional test-taking strategies. Let’s explore these key steps.
Set a Goal
The first step toward achieving a perfect score in the Digital SAT Math section is setting a clear goal. Some universities place particular emphasis on the Math section score. For example, if you plan to apply for an engineering program, a high Math score is crucial. In some fields, universities expect the Math section score to be higher than other sections.
Therefore, you should research your target field, universities, and your current mathematical skills to determine a goal. To achieve a high score, first analyze which topics require more attention and identify any gaps in your knowledge. Your preparation strategy should be tailored to your current skill level. In short, assess your current proficiency and define the level you want to reach.
Evaluate the Topics Properly
Dividing the section into four areas is not enough; you should also identify which topics appear most frequently on the test and prioritize them based on your goal.
For instance, if you want to improve a low Math score, you should focus on topics like exponential functions, linear functions, triangles and polygons, quadratic equations, percentages and ratios, mean, median, mode, etc., which make up about 50% of the exam.
If your goal is to achieve a perfect 800, you must fill all knowledge gaps and master less common topics such as polynomial division, trigonometry, complex numbers, experimental interpretation, and more. Thus, knowing your target score will help you prioritize the right topics.
Identify Your Weaknesses
Every student has different weaknesses. Some may struggle due to a lack of mathematical skills, while others may have strong knowledge but face difficulty solving questions quickly. Weak areas may include both content gaps and test-taking skills. Identifying your specific weaknesses is key to improving your performance.
Analyze Your Mistakes
During your preparation, you may make mistakes while solving practice tests or taking mock exams. Many students fail to ask themselves, "Why did I get this question wrong?" Instead of analyzing their errors, they move on without understanding their mistakes.
Since reviewing mistakes can feel tedious, some students avoid it altogether. However, if you don’t understand why you made a mistake, the chances of repeating it are high. To achieve a perfect score, review any question you answered incorrectly or were unsure about (even if it's just 20% uncertainty).
Practice Consistently
No success is possible without consistency and discipline. Students must recognize that time is limited and use it wisely. Every hour dedicated to SAT preparation should contribute to your progress. Work continuously on your weak areas and mistakes until they become your strengths. The effectiveness of the steps mentioned above depends on their consistent application. Otherwise, poor results will be inevitable.
Memorize Formulas and Master Their Application
Certain math topics require memorization and application of formulas. Without memorizing formulas and practicing them in different types of questions, you won’t be able to recall them quickly or apply them efficiently. Thus, do not ignore formula memorization and make sure to use them regularly in practice problems.
Use the Calculator Wisely
The built-in Desmos calculator in the Digital SAT is a powerful tool. You can use it for multi-step calculations and graphing equations.
However, it is not necessary for every question. Learning to solve problems without relying on a calculator strengthens your mathematical reasoning and prevents over-dependence on technology. Remember, understanding the problem and its solution process is key, and in many cases, solving problems without a calculator can be faster.
Review Your Answers
If you want to achieve the highest possible score, review your answers if you have time left at the end of each module.
If your goal is 800, you should be so proficient in solving problems that you have extra time to double-check your work. If you finish a module early, don’t stay idle—immediately go back and verify your answers. If there’s any question you’re not 100% confident about, reconsider it and attempt a different approach to solving it.
Try Different Strategies
During the exam, you may forget a solution method or feel confused about a particular question. For instance, if a question presents four answer choices that satisfy an inequality condition but asks for the incorrect one, and you are unsure how to solve it algebraically, you can test the answer choices instead.
If you forget one method, try another approach instead of wasting time.
Never Leave a Question Unanswered
Since incorrect answers do not deduct points from correct ones on the SAT, you should never leave a question blank. If you can’t solve a question, make an educated guess or eliminate incorrect choices to improve your odds. Every answered question contributes to your final score.
Stay Calm and Focused During the Exam
Many students experience anxiety when facing difficult questions, which can affect their performance on other questions. Regardless of the situation, stay calm and concentrate on the test.
Otherwise, your confusion may spread to other questions, or you may waste time, increasing the likelihood of a poor outcome. To minimize stress and familiarize yourself with the test environment, take mock exams and work on strategies to manage time and anxiety effectively.
