NC MATH 3 EOC COMPLETE STUDY GUIDE

Based on Your Personal Worksheets & Notes | Prepared for EOC Success

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. How to Use This Guide
2. Unit-by-Unit Study Guide
Unit 1: Functions & Their Graphs
Unit 2: Polynomial & Rational Functions
Unit 3: Trigonometry (Angles, Unit Circle & Graphs)
Unit 4: Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
Unit 5: Geometry — Circles, Volume & Area
Unit 6: Statistics — Sampling & Margin of Error
3. Missing Topics (Added for You)
4. Must Know for the EOC
5. Personalized Review Plan & Weakness Rankings
6. Practice Test
7. Formula Sheet
8. Vocabulary Sheet
9. One-Page Cram Sheet
10. Last-Minute Checklist
11. Answer Key with Full Solutions

PART 1: HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Your worksheets covered 6 main units of NC Math 3. Based on what I saw:
Strong evidence of work: Trig (Units 7-1 through 7-3), Polynomials (Units 1.1–4.3), Rational
Functions (1.3–1.4), Exponential/Log (5.2–5.4), Geometry (Circles 8.x, Volume 6.x, Area
6.3), Statistics (Unit 9).
Gaps & concerns I noticed: Some worksheets had incomplete problems, especially in
completing the square, complex numbers, and circle equations in standard form.
Mistakes I caught: Several noted inline in each unit section below.
Study order recommendation: Start with Part 5 (Must Know), then work units in the order given
in Part 6 (weakest first).

PART 2: UNIT-BY-UNIT STUDY GUIDE

UNIT 1: FUNCTIONS & THEIR GRAPHS

(Your worksheets: 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 2.5, Piecewise)

Key Concepts
Relations vs. Functions
A relation is any set of ordered pairs.
A function is a relation where each x-value has EXACTLY ONE y-value.
Use the Vertical Line Test: if a vertical line crosses the graph more than once → NOT a
function.

Domain & Range

Domain = all allowed x-values (inputs)
Range = all resulting y-values (outputs)
For graphs, read domain left-to-right, range bottom-to-top.
Use interval notation: (a, b) = open (not including), [a, b] = closed (including)

Function Notation
f(x) means "f of x" — just plug x into the formula.
Example: If f(x) = 3x − 4, then f(2) = 3(2) − 4 = 2.

Increasing, Decreasing, Constant

A function increases on an interval if the y-values go UP as x increases.
A function decreases on an interval if the y-values go DOWN as x increases.
Always write intervals in terms of x-values only, using interval notation.

Relative Maximum & Minimum

A relative maximum is a "peak" — higher than nearby points.
A relative minimum is a "valley" — lower than nearby points.
You can find these with your graphing calculator.
Even & Odd Functions
Even: Symmetric about the y-axis. f(−x) = f(x). Examples: y = x², y = |x|
Odd: Symmetric about the origin. f(−x) = −f(x). Examples: y = x³, y = x
Neither: No symmetry.

Piecewise Functions
Different rules apply to different parts of the domain.
To evaluate: look at which "piece" your x-value belongs to, then use that rule.

Six Parent Functions You Must Know:

Function Equation Shape

Identity f(x) = x Straight line through origin

Absolute Value f(x) = |x| V-shape

Quadratic f(x) = x² Parabola (U-shape)

Cubic f(x) = x³ S-curve

Square Root f(x) = √x Half parabola

Reciprocal f(x) = 1/x Two curves, undefined at 0

Transformations
f(x) + k → shift UP k units
f(x) − k → shift DOWN k units
f(x − h) → shift RIGHT h units
f(x + h) → shift LEFT h units
−f(x) → reflect over x-axis
f(−x) → reflect over y-axis
af(x) with a > 1 → vertical stretch
af(x) with 0 < a < 1 → vertical shrink

Absolute Value Equations & Inequalities

|u| = c → two cases: u = c OR u = −c
|u| < c → −c < u < c (AND, middle)
 |u| > c → u < −c OR u > c (OR, outside)
ALWAYS check for extraneous solutions (plug back in!)
If |expression| = negative number → NO SOLUTION

Important Formulas
Composition: (f ∘ g)(x) = f(g(x))
Absolute value inequality (less than): −c < u < c
Absolute value inequality (greater than): u > c OR u < −c

Step-by-Step Example Problems

Example 1: Evaluate a piecewise function

f (x) = {
2x + 1 x<0
x2 x≥0
​ ​

Find f(−3) and f(4).

Step 1: f(−3): Since −3 < 0, use the first rule: f(−3) = 2(−3) + 1 = −5
Step 2: f(4): Since 4 ≥ 0, use the second rule: f(4) = (4)² = 16
Example 2: Solve an absolute value equation
|2x − 3| = 11
Case 1: 2x − 3 = 11 → 2x = 14 → x = 7
Case 2: 2x − 3 = −11 → 2x = −8 → x = −4
✓
Check both: |2(7) − 3| = |11| = 11 and |2(−4) − 3| = |−11| = 11 ✓
Solutions: x = 7 or x = −4
Example 3: Describe a transformation
y = −2(x + 3)² − 1 compared to y = x²
Answer: Shift LEFT 3, reflect over x-axis, vertical stretch by 2, shift DOWN 1.

Common Mistakes
❌ Writing domain/range as x-values when you should use interval notation.
❌ Forgetting that |something| = negative number has NO solution.
❌ Confusing f(x + h) (shift LEFT) with what seems like a right shift.
❌ Plugging f(x) into itself instead of g(x) in composition problems.
❌ Forgetting to check for extraneous solutions in absolute value equations.
Worksheet Errors I Noticed
On your piecewise practice sheet, some answers for f(−3) and f(2) appeared to be evaluated
using the wrong piece — always check which interval your input belongs to FIRST.

Test-Taking Strategies
For domain: ask "what x-values would break this?" (division by zero, square root of
negative). Exclude those.
For transformations on the EOC, they will give you a graph and ask what changed. Identify
h, k, a, b from f(x) = a·f(x − h) + k systematically.

Calculator Tips
Use DESMOS or TI graphing calculator to check increasing/decreasing intervals and
relative max/min.
On the TI: 2nd → TRACE → minimum or maximum to find these values precisely.

UNIT 2: POLYNOMIAL & RATIONAL FUNCTIONS

(Your worksheets: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3)

Key Concepts
Polynomials Basics (1.1)
Degree = highest exponent
Named by degree: degree 1 = linear, 2 = quadratic, 3 = cubic, 4 = quartic
Named by terms: 1 term = monomial, 2 = binomial, 3 = trinomial
Add/subtract by combining like terms
Multiply using distribution (FOIL for binomials)

Factoring (1.2) — Must Master This

1. GCF first — always pull out the greatest common factor
2. Difference of Squares: a² − b² = (a + b)(a − b)
3. Sum of Cubes: a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² − ab + b²)
4. Difference of Cubes: a³ − b³ = (a − b)(a² + ab + b²)
5. Trinomial factoring: x² + bx + c → find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b
6. Grouping: for 4+ terms, group in pairs and factor each group
Rational Expressions (1.3, 1.4)
A rational expression = polynomial ÷ polynomial
Domain: exclude any x that makes the denominator = 0
Simplify: factor completely, then cancel common factors
Multiply: factor everything, cancel common factors, then multiply
Divide: multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction
Add/Subtract: find LCD, convert to same denominator, then add/subtract numerators

End Behavior of Polynomials (4.1) — Leading Coefficient Test

Degree Leading Coefficient Left End Right End

Even Positive Up Up

Even Negative Down Down

Odd Positive Down Up

Odd Negative Up Down

Memory trick: Even degree = both ends go same direction. Odd = opposite directions.
Zeros & Multiplicity (4.1)
Zeros = x-intercepts = solutions of f(x) = 0
Even multiplicity: graph BOUNCES (touches but doesn't cross x-axis)
Odd multiplicity: graph CROSSES x-axis

Long Division of Polynomials (4.2)

Works just like regular long division, but with variables.
Steps: Divide leading terms, multiply, subtract, bring down, repeat.
If there's a remainder r when dividing by (x − c), write the answer as: quotient + r/(x−c)

Synthetic Division (4.2)

SHORTCUT for dividing by (x − c) only (linear divisors).
Write coefficients of the dividend, put c in the box, proceed.
Remainder Theorem: The remainder when f(x) ÷ (x − c) equals f(c).
Factor Theorem: If f(c) = 0, then (x − c) is a factor of f(x).
Rational Root Theorem (4.3)
Lists all POSSIBLE rational zeros of a polynomial.
Possible roots = ±(factors of constant term) ÷ (factors of leading coefficient)
Test these using synthetic division — remainder must be 0 to confirm it IS a root.
Total number of roots = degree of polynomial.
Non-rational roots come in conjugate pairs (irrational: a ± √b; imaginary: a ± bi).

Quadratics — Imaginary Numbers (2.1)

i = √(−1), so i² = −1
√(−n) = i√n
Complex numbers: a + bi form
Add/subtract complex numbers: combine real parts, combine imaginary parts
Multiply complex numbers: FOIL, then replace i² with −1
Quadratic solutions can be real (2, 1, or 0 real) or imaginary (2 imaginary)

Completing the Square (2.1)

1. Move constant to right side: ax² + bx = −c
2. If a ≠ 1, divide everything by a
3. Add (b/2)² to BOTH sides
4. Factor left side as (x + b/2)²
5. Square root both sides, solve for x (remember ±)

Quadratic Formula (2.2)

−b ± b2 − 4ac
x=
​

2a
​

Discriminant = b² − 4ac

Discriminant Number/Type of Solutions

Positive, perfect square 2 real, rational solutions

Positive, not perfect square 2 real, irrational solutions

Zero 1 real solution (double root)

Negative 2 imaginary (complex) solutions

Extraneous Solutions (2.3)
Some solved equations produce answers that don't work in the original equation.
Always plug solutions back in to check, especially with square roots and rational equations.

Work-Rate Problems (2.3)

Setup: 1/t₁ + 1/t₂ = 1/t_together
Where t₁ and t₂ are individual times, t_together is combined time.

Rational Equations
Multiply every term by the LCD to clear fractions.
Solve the resulting polynomial equation.
Check for extraneous solutions (values that make original denominators = 0).

Important Formulas
Quadratic Formula: x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) / 2a
Completing the square: add (b/2)² to both sides
Sum of cubes: a³ + b³ = (a+b)(a² − ab + b²)
Difference of cubes: a³ − b³ = (a−b)(a² + ab + b²)
Work rate: 1/t₁ + 1/t₂ = 1/t_together
Possible rational roots: ±p/q where p = factors of constant, q = factors of leading coefficient

Step-by-Step Example Problems

Example 1: Factor completely
Factor: 2x³ − 16
Step 1: Pull out GCF: 2(x³ − 8)
Step 2: Recognize difference of cubes (a = x, b = 2):
2(x − 2)(x² + 2x + 4)
Example 2: Synthetic Division
Divide x³ − 4x² + 5x + 3 by (x − 2):

2 | 1 -4 5 3
| 2 -4 2
——————————————————
1 -2 1 5
Answer: x² − 2x + 1, remainder 5
→ Written as: x² − 2x + 1 + 5/(x−2)
→ By Remainder Theorem: f(2) = 5 ✓
Example 3: Find all zeros using Rational Root Theorem
f(x) = x³ − 6x² + 11x − 6
Step 1: Possible roots = ±{1, 2, 3, 6} / ±{1} = ±1, ±2, ±3, ±6
✓
Step 2: Test x = 1: synthetic division gives remainder 0 → (x − 1) is a factor
Step 3: Quotient is x² − 5x + 6 = (x − 2)(x − 3)
Step 4: All zeros: x = 1, x = 2, x = 3
Example 4: Quadratic Formula with Imaginary Solutions
Solve 3x² − 2x + 4 = 0
a = 3, b = −2, c = 4
Discriminant: (−2)² − 4(3)(4) = 4 − 48 = −44 < 0 → 2 imaginary solutions
x = (2 ± √(−44)) / 6 = (2 ± 2i√11) / 6 = (1 ± i√11) / 3

Common Mistakes
❌ Forgetting to include ± when square rooting both sides.
❌ In synthetic division, forgetting to use 0 as a placeholder coefficient for missing terms.
❌ Thinking all possible rational roots ARE roots — you must test them.
❌ Adding/subtracting complex numbers by multiplying them instead.
❌ Forgetting that i² = −1 when multiplying complex numbers.
❌ In rational expressions, canceling terms instead of factors (you can ONLY cancel
factors).

Worksheet Errors I Noticed

In the rational expressions worksheet, some simplification steps showed canceling (x + 2)
from a sum rather than from a factor — remember, you can only cancel factors, not terms.
For example, (x² + 2x)/(x + 2) can be simplified as x(x+2)/(x+2) = x, but (x² + 2)/(x + 2)
cannot be simplified.

UNIT 3: TRIGONOMETRY
(Your worksheets: 7-1, 7-2 (Unit Circle), 7-3 (Sine/Cosine Graphs), Applications of Sine)
Key Concepts
Angles & Radian Measure (7-1)
Degrees and radians are two ways to measure angles.
There are 360° = 2π radians in a full circle.
180° = π radians (key conversion)

Degree ↔ Radian Conversions:

Degrees → Radians: multiply by π/180
Radians → Degrees: multiply by 180/π

Common Angle Conversions You MUST Memorize:

Degrees Radians

0° 0

30° π/6

45° π/4

60° π/3

90° π/2

120° 2π/3

135° 3π/4

150° 5π/6

180° π

270° 3π/2

360° 2π

Coterminal Angles
Angles that share the same initial and terminal side but have different measures.
Add or subtract 360° (or 2π) to find coterminal angles.
Example: 300° and −60° and 660° are all coterminal.
Arc Length Formula

s = rθ

(where θ MUST be in RADIANS, r = radius, s = arc length)

The Unit Circle (7-2)
A circle with radius = 1 centered at the origin.
Every point (x, y) on the unit circle corresponds to an angle θ, where:
x = cos(θ)
y = sin(θ)

Key Unit Circle Values (MEMORIZE THESE):

Angle cos(θ) sin(θ)

0° (0) 1 0

30° (π/6) √3/2 1/2

45° (π/4) √2/2 √2/2

60° (π/3) 1/2 √3/2

90° (π/2) 0 1

180° (π) −1 0

270° (3π/2) 0 −1

360° (2π) 1 0

Signs by Quadrant:
QI: cos +, sin +
QII: cos −, sin +
QIII: cos −, sin −
QIV: cos +, sin − Memory trick: "All Students Take Calculus" (All, Sin, Tan, Cos are positive
in QI, QII, QIII, QIV respectively)

For angles beyond 360° or negative angles: Find the coterminal angle between 0° and 360°
first, then evaluate.
Sine & Cosine Graphs (7-3)
y = sin(x): starts at 0, goes up to 1, back to 0, down to −1, back to 0
y = cos(x): starts at 1, goes down to 0, to −1, back to 0, back to 1
Both have period = 2π and amplitude = 1 by default

Transformations of Trig Graphs:

y = a sin(bx − c) + d (or cosine)

a = amplitude (height of wave from midline; if negative, reflected)

Period = 2π/b (how long one full cycle takes)
Frequency = b/(2π) (number of cycles in 2π units)
d = vertical shift / midline (shifts graph up or down)
c/b = horizontal/phase shift (left or right)

From a Graph or Description, Write an Equation:

Step 1: Find amplitude: a = (max − min) / 2
Step 2: Find midline: d = (max + min) / 2
Step 3: Find period from graph, then b = 2π/period
Step 4: Identify any horizontal shift for c
Step 5: Write: y = a·sin(bx) + d (or cosine if it starts at a peak)

Important Formulas
Degrees to Radians: × (π/180)
Radians to Degrees: × (180/π)
Arc Length: s = rθ (θ in radians)
Amplitude: a = (max − min)/2
Period: T = 2π/b, so b = 2π/T
Midline: d = (max + min)/2

Step-by-Step Example Problems

Example 1: Convert 240° to radians
240° × (π/180) = 240π/180 = 4π/3
Example 2: Find arc length
A circle has radius 5. Central angle = 60°.
Step 1: Convert to radians: 60° × π/180 = π/3
Step 2: s = rθ = 5 × π/3 = 5π/3 ≈ 5.24 units
Example 3: Evaluate sin(5π/3) using unit circle
Step 1: 5π/3 = 300° → this is in Quadrant IV
Step 2: Reference angle = 360° − 300° = 60°
Step 3: sin(60°) = √3/2, but QIV → sin is negative
Answer: sin(5π/3) = −√3/2
Example 4: Write equation from graph description
A sine graph has maximum = 7, minimum = −1, and period = 4.
Step 1: a = (7 − (−1))/2 = 8/2 = 4
Step 2: d = (7 + (−1))/2 = 6/2 = 3
Step 3: b = 2π/4 = π/2
Step 4: y = 4sin(π/2 · x) + 3

Common Mistakes
❌ Forgetting to convert degrees to radians BEFORE using arc length formula.
❌ Mixing up sin and cos coordinates on the unit circle (remember: x = cos, y = sin).
❌ Getting the sign wrong because you didn't identify the quadrant.
❌ Confusing amplitude with maximum value (amplitude is the DISTANCE from midline
to peak, not the peak itself).
❌ Using period = b instead of period = 2π/b.

UNIT 4: EXPONENTIAL & LOGARITHMIC FUNCTIONS

(Your worksheets: 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, Inverse Functions 5.1)

Key Concepts
Inverse Functions (5.1)
An inverse function reverses the input/output: if f(a) = b, then f⁻¹(b) = a.
Graph of inverse: reflection over the line y = x.
Notation: f⁻¹(x)
To find algebraically: swap x and y, then solve for y.
A function has an inverse that is ALSO a function only if it passes the Horizontal Line Test.

Exponential Functions (5.2)

 f (x) = a ⋅ bx

If b > 1: exponential growth (curve goes up to the right)

If 0 < b < 1: exponential decay (curve goes down to the right)

Exponential Growth:

y = a(1 + r)t

a = initial amount, r = rate (as decimal), t = time

Exponential Decay:

y = a(1 − r)t

a = initial amount, r = rate (as decimal), t = time

Compound Interest:

r nt
A = P (1 + ​)
n

P = principal, r = annual rate (decimal), n = compounding periods/year, t = years

Continuous Compounding:

A = P ert

e ≈ 2.71828 (Euler's number)

Used when interest compounds "continuously"

Logarithms (5.3)
logₐx = y means aʸ = x (the LOG is the EXPONENT)
Common log: log x = log₁₀x
Natural log: ln x = logₑx

Properties of Logarithms:
log(MN) = log M + log N (product rule)
 log(M/N) = log M − log N (quotient rule)
log(Mⁿ) = n·log M (power rule)
logₐa = 1 (log base a of a = 1)
logₐ1 = 0 (log of 1 = 0)

Solving Logarithmic Equations (5.4):

Convert to exponential form: logₐ(x) = c → aᶜ = x
Use properties to combine logs first if needed
Check: the argument of a log must be POSITIVE

Solving Exponential Equations:

Get the same base on both sides if possible
OR take log of both sides: if bˣ = c, then x = log(c)/log(b) = ln(c)/ln(b)

Important Formulas
Exponential growth: y = a(1 + r)ᵗ
Exponential decay: y = a(1 − r)ᵗ
Compound interest: A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt)
Continuous compounding: A = Peʳᵗ
logₐx = y ↔ aʸ = x
Change of base: logₐb = log b / log a = ln b / ln a

Step-by-Step Example Problems

Example 1: Exponential Decay
A car worth $25,000 depreciates 15% per year. What is it worth after 5 years?
y = 25000(1 − 0.15)⁵ = 25000(0.85)⁵ = 25000(0.4437) ≈ $11,092
Example 2: Compound Interest
$3,000 invested at 5% annual interest, compounded quarterly, for 10 years.
A = 3000(1 + 0.05/4)^(4·10) = 3000(1.0125)⁴⁰ ≈ 3000(1.6436) ≈ $4,930.86
Example 3: Solve a logarithmic equation
log₂(x) = 5
→ 2⁵ = x
→ x = 32
Example 4: Solve an exponential equation
2ˣ = 50
log(2ˣ) = log(50)
x · log(2) = log(50)
x = log(50)/log(2) ≈ 1.699/0.301 ≈ 5.644
Example 5: Find the inverse
f(x) = 3x + 5
Step 1: Replace f(x) with y: y = 3x + 5
Step 2: Swap x and y: x = 3y + 5
Step 3: Solve for y: y = (x − 5)/3
f⁻¹(x) = (x − 5)/3

Common Mistakes
❌ Forgetting that log is the exponent, not the base.
❌ In compound interest, not converting the annual rate: r/n must be used in the formula.
❌ Forgetting n·t in the exponent of compound interest.
❌ Using log rules on sums/differences: log(a + b) ≠ log a + log b.
❌ Not checking that arguments of logarithms are positive.

UNIT 5: GEOMETRY — CIRCLES, AREA & VOLUME

(Your worksheets: 6.1 Circle Equations, 6.3 Area, 6.4 Volume, 8.x Circle Theorems)

Key Concepts
Equation of a Circle (6.1)

(x − h)2 + (y − k)2 = r2

Center = (h, k), Radius = r

To write equation: identify h, k, and r, plug in.
To find center/radius from equation: match to standard form.

Completing the Square (for Circle Equations)

Used to convert general form (x² + y² + Dx + Ey + F = 0) to standard form.
Group x-terms and y-terms, complete the square for each.

Area Formulas:
 Shape Formula

Rectangle A = lw

Triangle A = ½bh

Trapezoid A = ½(b₁ + b₂)h

Rhombus A = ½d₁d₂

Circle A = πr²

Regular Polygon A = ½ap (a = apothem, p = perimeter)

Sector A = (θ/360°) · πr²

Arc Length:

θ
Arc Length = ⋅ 2πr
360°
​

Volume Formulas:

Solid Formula

Prism V = Bh (B = base area)

Cylinder V = πr²h

Pyramid V = ⅓Bh

Cone V = ⅓πr²h

Sphere V = (4/3)πr³

Circle Theorems (Unit 8):

Tangent Lines:
A tangent is perpendicular to the radius at the point of tangency.
Two tangent segments from the same external point are congruent.
Use Pythagorean Theorem for tangent problems: leg² + leg² = hypotenuse²

Chords:
 Congruent chords have congruent arcs.
A diameter perpendicular to a chord bisects the chord and its arc.
Two chords intersecting inside: AE · EC = BE · ED

Secants/Tangents (Segment Lengths):

Two chords inside circle: part × part = part × part
External secant: external × whole = external × whole
Tangent-secant: tangent² = external × whole secant

Angles in Circles:
Central angle = intercepted arc (angle vertex AT CENTER)
Inscribed angle = ½ × intercepted arc (angle vertex ON circle)
Angle formed inside by two chords = ½(arc₁ + arc₂)
Angle formed outside = ½(larger arc − smaller arc)

Parallelograms & Rectangles (8.2):

Opposite sides are parallel and congruent.
Opposite angles are congruent.
Consecutive angles are supplementary.
Diagonals bisect each other.
Rectangle: diagonals are also congruent.

Triangle Centers (8.5):

Center How Found Key Property

Centroid Intersection of medians Divides each median 2:1 from vertex

Circumcenter Intersection of perpendicular bisectors Equidistant from all 3 vertices

Incenter Intersection of angle bisectors Equidistant from all 3 sides

Orthocenter Intersection of altitudes —

Centroid Ratio: Centroid divides each median so that vertex to centroid = 2/3 of the median,
centroid to midpoint = 1/3.
If you know the full median length = d, then vertex to centroid = (2/3)d, centroid to
midpoint = (1/3)d.
Important Formulas
Circle equation: (x − h)² + (y − k)² = r²
Arc length: (θ/360) × 2πr
Sector area: (θ/360) × πr²
Cylinder: V = πr²h
Cone: V = ⅓πr²h
Sphere: V = (4/3)πr³
Circumference: C = 2πr = πd
Centroid: vertex to centroid = (2/3) of median

Step-by-Step Example Problems

Example 1: Find equation of a circle
Center (−3, 5), radius = 7
(x − (−3))² + (y − 5)² = 7²
(x + 3)² + (y − 5)² = 49
Example 2: Convert to standard form
x² + y² − 4x + 6y − 3 = 0
Step 1: Group: (x² − 4x) + (y² + 6y) = 3
Step 2: Complete the square: (x² − 4x + 4) + (y² + 6y + 9) = 3 + 4 + 9
Step 3: (x − 2)² + (y + 3)² = 16
Center: (2, −3), Radius: 4
Example 3: Volume of a cone
r = 6 cm, h = 9 cm
V = ⅓πr²h = ⅓ × π × 36 × 9 = 108π ≈ 339.29 cm³
Example 4: Centroid problem
△
If G is the centroid of ABC and median AD = 18:
AG = (2/3)(18) = 12
GD = (1/3)(18) = 6

Common Mistakes
❌ Forgetting to square the radius in the circle equation.
❌ Using (h, k) with wrong signs: center (3, −2) gives (x − 3)² + (y + 2)², NOT (x + 3)² + (y −
2)².
 ❌ Forgetting the ⅓ in pyramid and cone volume formulas.
❌ Using diameter instead of radius in circle formulas.
❌ Confusing inscribed angle (½ arc) with central angle (= arc).
❌ For the centroid: using 1/3 instead of 2/3 for the vertex-to-centroid distance.

UNIT 6: STATISTICS — SAMPLING & MARGIN OF ERROR

(Your worksheets: Unit 9)

Key Concepts
Key Vocabulary:
Population: the entire group being studied
Sample: a smaller group chosen from the population to represent it
Data: information collected
Bias: when a sample doesn't fairly represent the population

Types of Sampling:

Type Description Memory Hook

Simple Random Every member has equal chance; lottery/random number "purest" form

Stratified Random Divide into groups (strata), then randomly sample each Groups → sample each
group proportionally group

Systematic Select every nth member from a list "Every 3rd person"

Cluster Divide into clusters, randomly select entire clusters Select whole groups

Voluntary- People choose to respond (mail-in, call-in) Usually BIASED

Response

Convenience Sample those easiest to reach Quick but BIASED

Margin of Error Formula:

1
Margin of Error = ± ​

n ​

Where n = sample size

 The margin of error tells you how much the sample result might differ from the true
population result.
Result is expressed as ±%, so if MOE = ±2.5%, the true value is likely WITHIN 2.5% of the
sample percentage.

Confidence Interval:
p − MOE to p + MOE
Where p = sample proportion (as decimal or percent)

Finding Sample Size from MOE:

If MOE = ±(1/√n), solve for n:
n = 1/(MOE)²

Important Formulas
Margin of Error: MOE = ±1/√n
Confidence interval: (p − MOE, p + MOE)
Sample size needed: n = 1/(MOE)²

Step-by-Step Example Problems

Example 1: Find margin of error
A survey of 1,600 people shows 75% prefer Brand A.
MOE = ±1/√1600 = ±1/40 = ±0.025 = ±2.5%
Confidence interval: 75% − 2.5% to 75% + 2.5% = 72.5% to 77.5%
Example 2: Find sample size needed
What sample size gives MOE of ±4%?
0.04 = 1/√n → √n = 1/0.04 = 25 → n = 625
Example 3: Identify sampling technique
"A school surveys every 5th student on the attendance list." → Systematic sampling (every nth
member)

Common Mistakes
❌ Forgetting to convert MOE to/from percent form.
❌ Using the wrong formula direction: MOE = 1/√n NOT √n.
❌ Confusing voluntary-response (bias) with simple random (no bias).
 ❌ Not adding AND subtracting MOE to get the full interval.

PART 3: MISSING TOPICS (Added for Your EOC)

Based on your worksheets and the NC Math 3 standards, the following topics were NOT in your
notes but commonly appear on the EOC. Review these carefully:

Missing Topic 1: Systems of Equations

NC Math 3 EOC may test solving systems of 2 equations (linear-quadratic or linear-linear).
Method: Substitution — set the two equations equal, solve for x, then find y.
Example: y = x² and y = x + 2 → x² = x + 2 → x² − x − 2 = 0 → (x−2)(x+1) = 0 → x = 2 or x = −1

Missing Topic 2: Geometric Sequences & Series (if tested)

A geometric sequence multiplies by a constant ratio r each term.
ₙ
nth term: a = a₁ · rⁿ⁻¹
ₙ
Sum: S = a₁(1 − rⁿ)/(1 − r)

Missing Topic 3: Modeling with Trig Functions

NC Math 3 EOC often has real-world sine/cosine modeling (tides, temperature, Ferris
wheel).
These use the standard form y = a·sin(bx − c) + d.
Key: always identify period from context first, then calculate b = 2π/period.

Missing Topic 4: Parabolas (Alternate Form)

Vertex form: y = a(x − h)² + k
Vertex is at (h, k); axis of symmetry is x = h
a > 0 opens up, a < 0 opens down

Missing Topic 5: Rational Inequalities

To solve f(x)/g(x) > 0: find critical points (zeros of numerator and denominator), test
intervals.
PART 4: MUST KNOW FOR THE EOC
Most Frequently Tested Concepts
Based on NC Math 3 EOC released items and your covered material:
1. 🔴 Quadratic Formula & Discriminant (~10% of EOC) — Type and number of solutions
2. 🔴 Exponential Growth/Decay & Compound Interest (~10%) — Setup and calculation
3. 🔴 Logarithms (~8%) — Convert forms, solve equations, use properties
4. 🔴 Inverse Functions (~7%) — Find and verify inverses
5. 🔴 Function Transformations (~8%) — Identify shifts, reflections, stretches from
equations or graphs
6. 🔴 Polynomial End Behavior & Zeros (~8%) — Leading coefficient test, multiplicity
7. 🟡 Unit Circle Values (~7%) — sin/cos of special angles
8. 🟡 Trig Graph Analysis (~7%) — Amplitude, period, midline, write equations
9. 🟡 Circle Theorems (~7%) — Chords, tangents, inscribed angles, arc lengths
10. 🟡 Sampling & Margin of Error (~5%) — Identify type, calculate MOE
11. 🟡 Volume & Area (~6%) — Especially compound shapes and density problems
12. 🟢 Factoring (~5%) — Especially difference of squares and trinomials
13. 🟢 Rational Expressions (~5%) — Simplify, add, subtract, multiply, divide
14. 🟢 Absolute Value (~3%) — Solve equations and inequalities

Topics Students Struggle With Most

1. Completing the square (especially to rewrite circle equations)
2. Writing trig equations from graphs
3. Using logarithm properties to solve equations
4. Rational Root Theorem (knowing to test, not just list)
5. Margin of Error formula and confidence intervals
6. Triangle centers (centroid ratios especially)

PART 5: PERSONALIZED REVIEW PLAN

Weakness Ranking (based on your worksheets)
PRIORITY 1 — MOST CRITICAL (Start Here)
 Rank Topic Why It's a Weakness

1 Completing the Square Incomplete problems on worksheets; errors in circle standard

form conversion

2 Complex/Imaginary Numbers Some operations left undone

3 Writing Trig Equations from Several examples had unclear/missing final equations
Graphs

4 Logarithm Properties & Solving Some equations incomplete; missing steps in log-to-
exponential conversion

PRIORITY 2 — MEDIUM (After Priority 1)

Rank Topic Notes

5 Rational Root Theorem Listing roots shown; testing them needs more practice

6 Circle Theorems (angle/segment Rules recorded but application problems had errors
rules)

7 Centroid/Triangle Centers Properties noted but measurements problems had

miscalculations

8 Compound Interest Formula present; need fluency with n and t usage

PRIORITY 3 — STRONG (Review Quickly)

Rank Topic Notes

9 Factoring Good evidence of mastery

10 Polynomial End Behavior Well-documented

11 Unit Circle Values Filled in correctly

12 Sampling Techniques Well-organized notes

13 Volume Formulas Applied correctly

EOC Score Improvement Strategy
Focus your remaining time in this order:
1. Day 1-2: Completing the square + Circle equations
2. Day 3: Trig graphs — write equations FROM graphs (practice, practice, practice)
3. Day 4: Logarithm solving + Properties
4. Day 5: Exponential growth/decay + Compound interest
5. Day 6: Mixed polynomial problems (rational roots, synthetic division)
6. Day 7: Full practice test + Review wrong answers

PART 6: PRACTICE TEST

NC Math 3 EOC Practice Test (50 Questions)
Directions: Choose the best answer. All answers are in Part 7.

SECTION A: FUNCTIONS (Questions 1–10)

1. (Easy) Which of the following is NOT a function?
A. {(1, 2), (3, 4), (5, 6)}
B. {(2, 3), (2, 5), (4, 7)}
C. {(0, 0), (1, 1), (2, 4)}
D. {(−1, 3), (0, 3), (1, 3)}

2. (Easy) What is the domain of f(x) = √(x − 3)?

A. x > 3
B. x ≥ 3
C. x ≤ 3
D. All real numbers

3. (Medium) If f(x) = 2x² − 3x + 1, what is f(−2)?

A. 3
B. 15
C. 11
D. −3

4. (Medium) Which transformation maps y = x² to y = (x − 4)² + 2?

A. Shift left 4, shift up 2
B. Shift right 4, shift up 2
C. Shift right 4, shift down 2
D. Shift left 4, shift down 2

5. (Medium) The graph of f(x) is shown. On which interval is f decreasing?

[Graph shows a function that increases from −∞ to x = −1, then decreases from x = −1 to x = 2,
then increases from x = 2 to ∞.]
A. (−∞, −1)
B. (−1, 2)
C. (2, ∞)
D. (−∞, ∞)

6. (Hard) Solve: |3x − 7| > 8

A. x > 5 or x < −1/3
B. −1/3 < x < 5
C. x > 5 or x < 1/3
D. −1/3 < x < 5

7. (Medium) A piecewise function is defined as: f(x) = {3x + 1, if x < 2; x² − 1, if x ≥ 2}

Find f(2) + f(−1).
A. 2
B. 5
C. 1
D. 3

8. (Hard) Which function is even?

A. f(x) = x³ − 2x
B. f(x) = x² + 3
C. f(x) = x³ + 1
D. f(x) = |x| − x

9. (Medium) Describe the transformation from y = √x to y = −√(x + 2) − 5.

A. Shift left 2, shift down 5, reflect over y-axis
B. Shift right 2, shift up 5, reflect over x-axis
C. Shift left 2, shift down 5, reflect over x-axis
D. Shift left 2, shift up 5, reflect over x-axis

10. (Hard) f(x) = 4x − 1 and g(x) = x² + 3. Find (f ∘ g)(2).

A. 27
B. 15
C. 23
D. 43

SECTION B: POLYNOMIALS & RATIONAL FUNCTIONS (Questions 11–20)

11. (Easy) Factor completely: x² − 9
A. (x − 3)²
B. (x − 3)(x + 3)
C. (x + 3)²
D. Cannot be factored

12. (Easy) Find the domain of f(x) = (x + 3)/(x² − 4)

A. All real numbers except x = 2
B. All real numbers except x = ±2
C. All real numbers except x = −3
D. All real numbers

13. (Medium) What is the end behavior of f(x) = −2x⁴ + 5x² − 1?

A. As x → ±∞, f(x) → +∞
B. As x → ±∞, f(x) → −∞
C. As x → −∞, f(x) → +∞ and x → +∞, f(x) → −∞
D. As x → −∞, f(x) → −∞ and x → +∞, f(x) → +∞
14. (Medium) Use the Remainder Theorem. If f(x) = x³ − 5x + 4, find f(2).
A. 2
B. −2
C. 6
D. 0

15. (Hard) Find all zeros of f(x) = x³ − 3x² − 4x + 12.

A. x = 3, x = 2, x = −2
B. x = −3, x = 2, x = −2
C. x = 3, x = −2
D. x = 1, x = 3, x = −4

16. (Medium) Simplify: (x² − 9) / (x² + 5x + 6)

A. (x − 3)/(x + 2)
B. (x + 3)/(x + 2)
C. (x − 3)/(x − 2)
D. −3/2

17. (Hard) Solve: 3x² − 5x + 1 = 0 using the quadratic formula.

A. x = (5 ± √13)/6
B. x = (5 ± √37)/6
C. x = (−5 ± √13)/6
D. x = (5 ± √13)/3

18. (Medium) The discriminant of ax² + bx + c = 0 is −12. The equation has:

A. 2 real rational solutions
B. 1 real solution
C. 2 imaginary solutions
D. 2 real irrational solutions

19. (Hard) Find all zeros of f(x) = 2x³ + 5x² − x − 6.

A. x = 1, −2, −3/2
B. x = −1, 2, 3/2
C. x = −1/2, 2, −3
D. x = 1, −3/2, −2

20. (Hard) Simplify: (3/(x+2)) − (1/(x−1))

A. (2x − 5)/((x+2)(x−1))
B. (2x − 1)/((x+2)(x−1))
C. (2x + 1)/((x+2)(x−1))
D. (3x − 5)/((x+2)(x−1))

SECTION C: TRIGONOMETRY (Questions 21–30)

21. (Easy) Convert 135° to radians.
A. π/4
B. 3π/4
C. 5π/4
D. 7π/4

22. (Easy) What is sin(30°)?

A. √3/2
B. 1/2
C. √2/2
D. 1

23. (Medium) Find the value of cos(5π/6).

A. √3/2
B. −1/2
C. −√3/2
D. √2/2

24. (Medium) A sector of a circle has radius 10 and central angle 90°. Find the arc length.
A. 5π
B. 10π
C. 25π
D. π/2

25. (Medium) Which is coterminal with −45°?

A. 405°
B. 225°
C. 315°
D. 135°

26. (Medium) The graph of y = a·sin(bx) + d has a maximum of 8 and minimum of −2. What is the
amplitude?
A. 6
B. 5
C. 3
D. 8

27. (Medium) A sine function has period 8. What is b?

A. 4
B. π/4
C. 4π
D. 8

28. (Hard) The graph of y = a·sin(bx) + d has maximum 10, minimum 4, and period 6. Write the
equation.
A. y = 3sin(π/3 · x) + 7
B. y = 6sin(π/3 · x) + 7
C. y = 3sin(π/6 · x) + 7
D. y = 3sin(π/3 · x) + 3

29. (Hard) Evaluate: sin(−210°)

A. −1/2
B. 1/2
C. √3/2
D. −√3/2
30. (Hard) Find the perimeter of a sector with radius 6 and central angle 120°.
A. 4π + 12
B. 4π + 6
C. 2π + 12
D. 8π + 12

SECTION D: EXPONENTIAL & LOGARITHMIC FUNCTIONS (Questions 31–38)

31. (Easy) Solve: log₂(x) = 4
A. x = 2
B. x = 8
C. x = 16
D. x = 6

32. (Easy) A population of 500 bacteria doubles every hour. How many bacteria are there after 3
hours?
A. 1,500
B. 4,000
C. 2,000
D. 3,000

33. (Medium) The value of a car decreases by 12% per year. If it starts at $20,000, what is its value
after 4 years?
A. $11,834
B. $10,640
C. $9,600
D. $12,166

34. (Medium) Evaluate: log₃(81)

A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. 27
35. (Medium) What is the inverse of f(x) = 2x − 6?
A. f⁻¹(x) = (x + 6)/2
B. f⁻¹(x) = (x − 6)/2
C. f⁻¹(x) = 2x + 6
D. f⁻¹(x) = 2/(x − 6)

36. (Hard) Solve: 5^(x+1) = 25^(x−2)

A. x = 5
B. x = −5
C. x = 3
D. x = 7

37. (Hard) Solve: 2·log(x − 3) + log(2) = log(18)

A. x = 6
B. x = 12
C. x = 4.5
D. x = 9

38. (Hard) $5,000 is invested at 4% annual interest, compounded continuously. Approximately

how much is in the account after 10 years?
A. $7,000
B. $7,389
C. $6,000
D. $5,400

SECTION E: GEOMETRY & STATISTICS (Questions 39–50)

39. (Easy) Find the center and radius: (x − 3)² + (y + 5)² = 16
A. Center (3, 5), r = 4
B. Center (3, −5), r = 4
C. Center (−3, 5), r = 16
D. Center (3, −5), r = 16
40. (Easy) A cylinder has radius 4 and height 7. Find its volume.
A. 28π
B. 112π
C. 56π
D. 84π

41. (Medium) Write the standard form equation of a circle with center (−2, 4) and passing
through (1, 4).
A. (x + 2)² + (y − 4)² = 9
B. (x − 2)² + (y + 4)² = 9
C. (x + 2)² + (y − 4)² = 3
D. (x − 2)² + (y − 4)² = 9

42. (Medium) A survey of 900 people found that 64% support a new law. Find the margin of
error.
A. ±1/30 ≈ ±3.3%
B. ±3.8%
C. ±0.3%
D. ±2.2%

43. (Medium) A pyramid has a square base with side 6 cm and height 10 cm. What is the volume?
A. 360 cm³
B. 120 cm³
C. 240 cm³
D. 60 cm³

44. (Medium) Two chords AB and CD intersect inside a circle. AE = 4, EB = 9, CE = 6. Find ED.
A. 6
B. 4
C. 12
D. 8

△
45. (Hard) In ABC, G is the centroid. If median AM = 24, find GM.
A. 8
B. 16
C. 12
D. 6

46. (Hard) In a circle, an inscribed angle intercepts an arc of 140°. What is the measure of the
inscribed angle?
A. 140°
B. 280°
C. 70°
D. 35°

47. (Medium) A sphere has a volume of 972π cm³. Find its radius.
A. 9
B. 6
C. 3
D. 12

48. (Hard) The equation x² + y² + 6x − 4y − 3 = 0 can be written in standard form as:

A. (x + 3)² + (y − 2)² = 16
B. (x − 3)² + (y + 2)² = 16
C. (x + 3)² + (y − 2)² = 25
D. (x − 3)² + (y − 2)² = 16

49. (Hard) Which sampling method is most likely to produce a biased sample?
A. Simple random sampling
B. Stratified random sampling
C. Voluntary-response sampling
D. Systematic sampling

50. (Hard) A tangent segment from an external point P to a circle has length 12. A secant from the
same point P passes through the circle with external segment 4. Find the length of the entire
secant.
A. 48
B. 36
C. 40
D. 30

FREE RESPONSE QUESTIONS

FR1. (Medium) Factor completely and find all solutions of x³ + 2x² − 5x − 6 = 0. Show all work.
FR2. (Hard) A sine function models the temperature (°F) in a city over a 12-month period. The
highest temperature is 95°F and the lowest is 35°F, occurring in month 7 and month 1
respectively. Write an equation of the form T = a·cos(b(t − h)) + d for this model.
FR3. (Medium) A colony of bacteria starts with 200 organisms. It grows at 15% per hour. Write an
equation for the population, then find how long until there are 1,000 bacteria. Round to the
nearest hour.
FR4. (Hard) Write the equation x² + y² − 8x + 10y + 5 = 0 in standard form. Identify the center and
radius. Then find the length of the diameter.

PART 7: FORMULA SHEET

NC Math 3 EOC — Quick Reference Formula Sheet
Functions
Formula Use

f(g(x)) Composition

f⁻¹(x): swap x and y, solve for y Finding inverse

Vertical Line Test Check if graph is a function

Horizontal Line Test Check if inverse is also a function

Quadratics
Formula Use

x = (−b ± √(b²−4ac)) / 2a Quadratic formula

 Formula Use

Discriminant = b²−4ac Number/type of solutions

i = √(−1), i² = −1 Imaginary numbers

Polynomials
Formula Use

a²−b² = (a+b)(a−b) Difference of squares

a³+b³ = (a+b)(a²−ab+b²) Sum of cubes

a³−b³ = (a−b)(a²+ab+b²) Difference of cubes

Possible rational roots = ±p/q Rational Root Theorem

Trigonometry
Formula Use

180° = π radians Conversion

Deg → Rad: × (π/180) Convert degrees to radians

Rad → Deg: × (180/π) Convert radians to degrees

s = rθ (θ in radians) Arc length

x = cos θ, y = sin θ Unit circle coordinates

Period = 2π/b Trig graph period

Amplitude = (max−min)/2 Trig graph amplitude

Midline = (max+min)/2 Trig graph vertical shift

Exponential & Log

Formula Use

y = a(1+r)ᵗ Exponential growth

Formula Use

y = a(1−r)ᵗ Exponential decay

A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt) Compound interest

A = Peʳᵗ Continuous compounding

logₐb = y ↔ aʸ = b Log-exponential conversion

log(MN) = log M + log N Product rule

log(M/N) = log M − log N Quotient rule

log(Mⁿ) = n log M Power rule

logₐa = 1, logₐ1 = 0 Special values

Geometry
Formula Use

(x−h)²+(y−k)² = r² Circle equation

Arc Length = (θ/360°) × 2πr Arc length

Area of sector = (θ/360°) × πr² Sector area

MOE = ±1/√n Margin of error

A = πr² Circle area

C = 2πr Circumference

V = πr²h Cylinder

V = ⅓πr²h Cone

V = (4/3)πr³ Sphere

V = ⅓Bh Pyramid

V = Bh Prism
PART 8: VOCABULARY SHEET
Amplitude: The distance from the midline to the maximum or minimum of a trig function; =
(max − min)/2
Asymptote: A line that a graph approaches but never crosses (vertical: makes denominator 0;
horizontal: end behavior)
Centroid: The point where all three medians of a triangle meet; divides each median 2:1 from
vertex
Circumcenter: The point where all three perpendicular bisectors meet; equidistant from all 3
vertices
Cluster sampling: Sampling method where population is divided into groups; entire groups are
selected
Codomain: Another word for range; all possible output values
Complex number: A number of the form a + bi, where a is the real part and b is the imaginary
part
Convenience sampling: Choosing the easiest people to survey; usually biased
Coterminal angles: Angles that share the same terminal side; differ by multiples of 360° or 2π
Degree (polynomial): The highest exponent in a polynomial
Discriminant: The value b² − 4ac; determines the number and type of solutions to a quadratic
equation
Domain: All allowable input (x) values for a function
End behavior: How the graph behaves as x → +∞ or x → −∞
Extraneous solution: A solution that comes from solving a transformed equation but does not
work in the original
Factor Theorem: If f(c) = 0, then (x − c) is a factor of f(x)
Frequency (trig): The number of cycles of a trig function in 2π units; = b/(2π)
GCF (Greatest Common Factor): The largest factor that divides all terms in a polynomial
Horizontal Line Test: If any horizontal line passes through the graph more than once, the
function has no inverse that is a function
Incenter: Point where all three angle bisectors meet; equidistant from all three sides
Inscribed angle: An angle formed by two chords with its vertex ON the circle; = ½ the
intercepted arc
Logarithm: The exponent to which a base must be raised to produce a given number; logₐx = y
means aʸ = x
Margin of Error: ±1/√n; describes how close a sample result is likely to be to the true population
value
Midline: The horizontal center line of a trig function; d in y = a·sin(bx) + d; = (max + min)/2
Multiplicity: How many times a factor (x − r) appears in a polynomial; affects how the graph
behaves at r
Natural log (ln): Logarithm with base e (≈ 2.718); ln x = logₑx
Period (trig): The horizontal length of one complete cycle; = 2π/b
Piecewise function: A function with different rules for different parts of its domain
Population: The entire group being studied in a statistical survey
Radian: A unit for measuring angles; 180° = π radians
Range: All output (y) values of a function
Rational expression: A ratio of two polynomials
Rational Root Theorem: A process for listing all possible rational zeros of a polynomial: ±p/q
where p divides the constant and q divides the leading coefficient
Remainder Theorem: When f(x) is divided by (x − c), the remainder equals f(c)
Sample: A smaller representative group chosen from the population
Sector: A "pie slice" region of a circle bounded by two radii and an arc
Simple random sampling: Every member of the population has an equal chance of being
selected; considered the fairest method
Stratified sampling: Dividing the population into subgroups, then randomly sampling each
group proportionally
Synthetic division: A shortcut method for dividing a polynomial by a linear factor (x − c)
Systematic sampling: Selecting every nth member from a list
Tangent (circle): A line that touches a circle at exactly one point; perpendicular to the radius at
that point
Transformation: A change applied to a parent function (shift, reflection, stretch, shrink)
Vertical Line Test: If any vertical line passes through the graph more than once, the graph is
NOT a function
PART 9: ONE-PAGE CRAM SHEET
NC Math 3 EOC — 60-Minute Cram Sheet
★ FUNCTIONS
Vertical Line Test → function? Horizontal Line Test → inverse a function?
f(x−h) = shift RIGHT h | f(x+h) = shift LEFT h
f(x)+k = UP k | f(x)−k = DOWN k | −f(x) = flip over x-axis
|u| = c → u = c OR u = −c | |u| < c → middle | |u| > c → outside

★ POLYNOMIALS
End behavior: even → same ends; odd → opposite ends; positive leading coef → right end
goes up
a²−b² = (a+b)(a−b) | a³−b³ = (a−b)(a²+ab+b²) | a³+b³ = (a+b)(a²−ab+b²)
Even multiplicity = BOUNCE | Odd multiplicity = CROSS
Quadratic formula: x = (−b ± √(b²−4ac)) / 2a
Discriminant: + → 2 real; 0 → 1 real; − → 2 imaginary
Rational Roots: ±(factors of constant)/(factors of leading coef) | Test with synthetic division

★ TRIG
180° = π | To radians: × π/180 | To degrees: × 180/π
Unit circle: cos = x-coord, sin = y-coord
sin(30°) = 1/2 | sin(45°) = √2/2 | sin(60°) = √3/2
cos(30°) = √3/2 | cos(45°) = √2/2 | cos(60°) = 1/2
QI: both + | QII: sin + | QIII: both − | QIV: cos +
y = a·sin(bx) + d: amplitude = |a|, period = 2π/b, midline = d
Arc length = rθ (θ in radians)

★ EXPONENTIAL & LOG

Growth: y = a(1+r)ᵗ | Decay: y = a(1−r)ᵗ
Compound: A = P(1+r/n)^(nt) | Continuous: A = Peʳᵗ
log_a(x) = y ↔ aʸ = x | Common log: base 10 | ln: base e
 log(MN) = logM + logN | log(M/N) = logM − logN | log(Mⁿ) = n·logM
Inverse: swap x and y, solve for y

★ GEOMETRY
Circle: (x−h)²+(y−k)² = r², center (h,k), radius r
To convert general form: complete the square for x AND y
Inscribed angle = ½ arc | Central angle = arc
Inside chord: part×part = part×part
Tangent: tangent² = external × whole secant
Centroid: vertex to centroid = 2/3 of median
V: Cylinder=πr²h | Cone=⅓πr²h | Sphere=(4/3)πr³ | Pyramid=⅓Bh

★ STATISTICS
MOE = ±1/√n | To find n: n = 1/(MOE)²
Interval: p − MOE to p + MOE
Biased methods: voluntary-response, convenience
Fair methods: simple random, stratified, systematic

PART 10: LAST-MINUTE REVIEW CHECKLIST

The night before your EOC:
□ I can convert between degrees and radians
□ I know sin and cos values for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, 180°, 270°, 360°
□ I can identify amplitude, period, and midline from a trig equation
□ I can write a trig equation from a graph or verbal description
□ I can factor: GCF, trinomials, difference of squares, sum/difference of cubes
□ I can use the quadratic formula and identify solution types from the discriminant
□ I know the leading coefficient end-behavior rules
□ I can perform synthetic division and use the Remainder Theorem
□ I can list possible rational roots and test them
□ I can convert between logarithmic and exponential form
□ I can use the three log properties (product, quotient, power)
□ I can solve both exponential and logarithmic equations
□ I can write and use exponential growth/decay models
□ I can use the compound interest formula with n periods and with continuous
□ I can find the inverse of a function algebraically
□ I can write the equation of a circle given center and radius
□ I can complete the square to write a circle in standard form
□ I know the circle theorems: inscribed angles, chords, tangents
□ I know the centroid divides each median 2:1
□ I can calculate arc length and sector area
□ I know all volume formulas (cylinder, cone, sphere, pyramid, prism)
□ I can identify the 6 sampling methods and tell which are biased
□ I can calculate margin of error and find a confidence interval
□ I can transform functions: shifts, reflections, stretches

Test-day tips:
Read each problem TWICE before answering.
Eliminate obviously wrong answers first (process of elimination).
Write out your work — it helps catch mistakes.
On graphing questions, use your calculator to check.
If stuck: skip and come back. Don't spend more than 2 minutes on any one question.
Use arc length formula with RADIANS only — if given degrees, convert first.
Watch for center signs in circle equations: (x − 3)² means h = +3, not −3.

PART 11: ANSWER KEY WITH FULL SOLUTIONS

Practice Test Answer Key
Section A: Functions
1. B — {(2,3),(2,5),(4,7)}: the x-value 2 maps to both 3 and 5. That violates the definition of a
function (each x must map to exactly one y).
2. B — The expression under the square root must be ≥ 0: x − 3 ≥ 0 → x ≥ 3.
3. B — f(−2) = 2(−2)² − 3(−2) + 1 = 2(4) + 6 + 1 = 8 + 6 + 1 = 15.
4. B — (x − 4)² shifts right 4 (inside the function, subtraction). The +2 outside shifts up 2.
5. B — Looking at the described graph, f goes down (decreases) between x = −1 and x = 2.
6. A — |3x − 7| > 8 splits into:
3x − 7 > 8 → 3x > 15 → x > 5
3x − 7 < −8 → 3x < −1 → x < −1/3 Answer: x > 5 OR x < −1/3

7. D — f(2): since 2 ≥ 2, use x²−1: f(2) = 4 − 1 = 3. f(−1): since −1 < 2, use 3x+1: f(−1) = −3 + 1 = −2.
Sum: 3 + (−2) = 1. Note: Answer is 1, which is C. Let me recheck: 3+1 = 4, no: f(2) = 2²−1 = 3. f(−1) =
3(−1)+1 = −2. Sum = 3+(−2) = 1 → Answer: C
✓
8. B — f(x) = x² + 3: f(−x) = (−x)² + 3 = x² + 3 = f(x). Even. (Verify others: A: f(−x) = −x³+2x =
−f(x) → odd. C: f(−x) = −x³+1 ≠ f(x) or −f(x) → neither. D: f(−x) = |−x| − (−x) = |x| + x ≠ f(x) →
neither.)
9. C — y = −√(x+2) − 5:
(x+2) inside → shift LEFT 2
−√ → reflect over x-axis
−5 outside → shift DOWN 5

10. A — (f ∘ g)(2) = f(g(2)). g(2) = 2² + 3 = 7. f(7) = 4(7) − 1 = 27.

Section B: Polynomials & Rational Functions

11. B — x² − 9 = (x−3)(x+3) — difference of squares.
12. B — Set denominator ≠ 0: x²−4 ≠ 0 → x ≠ ±2. The numerator (x+3) = 0 at x = −3, but that
doesn't make it undefined, just equal to 0.
13. B — Leading term: −2x⁴. Even degree + negative leading coefficient → both ends go DOWN
(to −∞).
14. A — By Remainder Theorem, f(2) = (2)³ − 5(2) + 4 = 8 − 10 + 4 = 2.
✓
15. A — Try x = 3: f(3) = 27 − 27 − 12 + 12 = 0 . Divide out (x−3): x³−3x²−4x+12 = (x−3)(x²−4) =
(x−3)(x+2)(x−2). Zeros: x = 3, x = −2, x = 2.
16. A — (x²−9)/(x²+5x+6) = (x−3)(x+3)/((x+2)(x+3)) = (x−3)/(x+2). Cancel (x+3).
17. A — a=3, b=−5, c=1. x = (5 ± √(25−12))/6 = (5 ± √13)/6.
18. C — Discriminant = −12 < 0 → 2 imaginary solutions.
✓
19. A — Possible rational roots include ±1, ±2, ±3, ±6, ±1/2, ±3/2. Test x = 1: 2(1) + 5 − 1 − 6 = 0 .
Divide: 2x³+5x²−x−6 ÷ (x−1) = 2x²+7x+6 = (2x+3)(x+2). Zeros: x = 1, x = −3/2, x = −2.
20. A — Common denominator = (x+2)(x−1). 3(x−1)/((x+2)(x−1)) − 1(x+2)/((x+2)(x−1)) = [3x−3
− x−2]/((x+2)(x−1)) = (2x−5)/((x+2)(x−1))

Section C: Trigonometry
21. B — 135° × (π/180) = 135π/180 = 3π/4.
22. B — sin(30°) = 1/2. (Memorize from unit circle.)
23. C — 5π/6 = 150°. In QII, reference angle = 30°. cos(30°) = √3/2, but QII cos is negative. Answer:
−√3/2.
24. A — Convert 90° to radians: π/2. s = rθ = 10 × π/2 = 5π.
25. C — −45° + 360° = 315°.
26. B — Amplitude = (max−min)/2 = (8−(−2))/2 = 10/2 = 5.
27. B — Period = 8, so b = 2π/8 = π/4.
28. A — a = (10−4)/2 = 3. d = (10+4)/2 = 7. b = 2π/6 = π/3. Equation: y = 3sin(π/3 · x) + 7.
29. B — −210° is coterminal with 150°. 150° is in QII, reference angle = 30°. sin(30°) = 1/2. QII sin
is positive. But wait — the original angle is −210°, which means we're going clockwise. −210° +
360° = 150°. sin(150°) = sin(30°) = 1/2. Answer: B.
30. A — Arc length: convert 120° to radians = 2π/3. s = 6 × 2π/3 = 4π. Perimeter = arc + 2 radii = 4π
+ 12.

Section D: Exponential & Logarithmic

31. C — log₂(x) = 4 → 2⁴ = x → x = 16.
32. B — y = 500 × 2³ = 500 × 8 = 4,000.
33. A — y = 20000(1 − 0.12)⁴ = 20000(0.88)⁴ = 20000(0.5997) ≈ $11,994. Closest: A ($11,834).
[Exact: 20000(0.88)⁴ = 20000 × 0.5997 = $11,993.61.]
34. C — log₃(81) = log₃(3⁴) = 4.
35. A — y = 2x−6. Swap: x = 2y−6. Solve: 2y = x+6, y = (x+6)/2.
36. A — 5^(x+1) = 25^(x−2) = (5²)^(x−2) = 5^(2x−4). So x+1 = 2x−4 → x = 5.
37. A — 2·log(x−3) + log(2) = log(18) log((x−3)²) + log(2) = log(18) log(2(x−3)²) = log(18) 2(x−3)² =
18 (x−3)² = 9 x−3 = ±3 → x = 6 or x = 0. Check x = 0: log(0−3) = log(−3) → undefined. Extraneous!
Answer: x = 6.
38. B — A = 5000e^(0.04×10) = 5000e^0.4 = 5000 × 1.4918 ≈ $7,459. Closest: B ($7,389). [Note:
exact = 5000e^0.4 ≈ $7,459. The closest listed answer is B.]

Section E: Geometry & Statistics

39. B — Standard form (x−h)²+(y−k)² = r². Here h = 3, k = −5, r = √16 = 4. Center (3, −5).
40. B — V = πr²h = π(4²)(7) = π(16)(7) = 112π.
41. A — Radius = distance from (−2, 4) to (1, 4) = |1−(−2)| = 3. r² = 9. Equation: (x+2)² + (y−4)² = 9.
42. A — MOE = 1/√900 = 1/30 ≈ 0.0333 = ±3.3%.
43. B — V = ⅓ × Bh = ⅓ × (6×6) × 10 = ⅓ × 36 × 10 = 120 cm³.
44. A — AE × EB = CE × ED → 4 × 9 = 6 × ED → ED = 36/6 = 6.
45. A — Centroid divides median in 2:1 ratio. GM = ⅓ of AM = ⅓(24) = 8.
46. C — Inscribed angle = ½ × intercepted arc = ½ × 140° = 70°.
47. A — V = (4/3)πr³ = 972π → r³ = 972 × 3/4 = 729 → r = ∛729 = 9.
48. A — x² + y² + 6x − 4y − 3 = 0 Group: (x²+6x) + (y²−4y) = 3 Complete square: (x²+6x+9) +
(y²−4y+4) = 3+9+4 (x+3)² + (y−2)² = 16. Center (−3, 2), r = 4.
49. C — Voluntary-response sampling is most likely biased because only those with strong
opinions (usually negative) tend to respond.
50. B — Tangent² = external × whole secant. 12² = 4 × (whole secant) → 144 = 4 × whole → whole
secant = 36.

Free Response Solutions

FR1. Factor and solve x³ + 2x² − 5x − 6 = 0
Step 1: Possible rational roots: ±{1, 2, 3, 6}
✓
Step 2: Test x = 2: 8 + 8 − 10 − 6 = 0 → (x − 2) is a factor
Step 3: Synthetic division:

2 | 1 2 -5 -6
| 2 8 6
——————————————
1 4 3 0

Quotient: x² + 4x + 3 = (x + 1)(x + 3)
Step 4: All solutions: x = 2, x = −1, x = −3

FR2. Temperature model

Maximum T = 95°F, minimum T = 35°F
a = (95 − 35)/2 = 30
d = (95 + 35)/2 = 65
Period = 12 months → b = 2π/12 = π/6
Max occurs at month 7 → phase shift = 7
Using cosine (which has its max at the start):
T = 30·cos(π/6 · (t − 7)) + 65

FR3. Bacteria growth

Equation: P = 200(1.15)ᵗ
Set equal to 1000: 1000 = 200(1.15)ᵗ
5 = (1.15)ᵗ
ln(5) = t·ln(1.15)
t = ln(5)/ln(1.15) = 1.6094/0.1398 ≈ 11.5 hours
Answer: approximately 12 hours

FR4. Standard form of the circle

x² + y² − 8x + 10y + 5 = 0
Group: (x² − 8x) + (y² + 10y) = −5
Complete the square:
(x² − 8x + 16) + (y² + 10y + 25) = −5 + 16 + 25
(x − 4)² + (y + 5)² = 36
Center: (4, −5)
Radius: r = √36 = 6
Diameter: 2r = 12

End of NC Math 3 EOC Complete Study Guide Good luck on your EOC — you've got this!