SAT Math — Format and Content Overview (Digital
SAT, 1500+ Target)
General Structure
1 Total test time: 2 hours 14 minutes (shared with Reading & Writing).
2 Two Math modules — each 35 minutes long.
3 Each module has 22 questions, for a total of 44 questions.
4 First module has mixed difficulty; second module adapts based on your first performance.
5 Calculator allowed for all math questions (built-in Desmos-style graphing calculator).
6 You can also bring an approved calculator if you prefer physical use.
Math Content Areas
1 1. Algebra: linear equations, inequalities, and systems of equations.
2 2. Advanced Math: nonlinear equations, quadratics, polynomials, and functions.
3 3. Problem Solving & Data Analysis (PSDA): ratios, percentages, probability, and statistics.
4 4. Geometry & Trigonometry: area, volume, circles, angles, right triangles, and trigonometric ratios.
Algebra
1 Solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities.
2 Modeling relationships between quantities using linear expressions.
3 Solving systems of linear equations (both algebraically and graphically).
4 Interpreting slopes and intercepts in context.
Advanced Math
1 Quadratic functions and equations (factoring, completing the square, quadratic formula).
2 Polynomial operations (addition, multiplication, factoring).
3 Exponential and radical equations.
4 Function transformations, inverses, and compositions.
5 Modeling with nonlinear functions.
Problem Solving & Data Analysis (PSDA)
1 Ratios, rates, and proportional relationships.
2 Percent increase/decrease and unit conversions.
3 Mean, median, mode, range, and standard deviation.
4 Scatterplots, line of best fit, and correlation.
5 Interpreting tables, graphs, and probability models.
Geometry & Trigonometry
1 Area and perimeter of 2D shapes; surface area and volume of 3D solids.
2 Pythagorean theorem and special right triangles (30-60-90, 45-45-90).
3 Circle equations and arc properties.
4 Basic trigonometric ratios: sin, cos, tan.
5 Modeling periodic phenomena using trig functions.
Scoring and Difficulty
1 Math section scored on a scale of 200–800.
2 Total SAT score = Reading & Writing (200–800) + Math (200–800).
3 For a 1500+ target, aim for 780–800 in Math.
4 Difficulty adapts after the first module — accuracy is key early on.
5 No penalty for wrong answers — always guess if unsure.
Key Takeaways
1 Focus on algebra and functions — these are the heaviest-weighted topics.
2 Use the built-in calculator efficiently; practice Desmos shortcuts.
3 Memorize key formulas but know when and how to apply them.
4 Time management: ~80 seconds per question on average.
5 For 1500+ scores, accuracy on high-difficulty questions is essential.