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SAT/ACT/PSAT Math tips, get a copy of the Newton's
Window Workbook: Raising Scores on the SAT, ACT, PSAT without a Prep Class
The best test-taking strategy is to know enough to
know the answer. This workbook will show you how.
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Tip #3
It is VERY important for students to be able to READ math. We have many things on
our site to teach them, teach you, and encourage this skill. One of the places that
benefits from this skill is on standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT.
Words in English have meanings in math. As students work on math problems,
particularly word problems, they get a feel for this. Many kids skip word problems,
convinced they're "too hard." They're not. Don't skip them. Do them,
and your ability with this skill will improve without your even noticing.
In general,
is means
=
of means x
(multiplication)
per cent (%) means divided by 100.
For example:
Y is what percent of 20 % of 15?
a). Y/300 %
b). 3/100Y %
c). 3Y/100 %
d). 100/3Y %
e). 100Y/3 %
~ ~ ~
Looking at the answer choices may seem overwhelming and confusing, but not so.
Look again at the problem, and translate it into math:
Y = ?/100 x 20/100 x 15
now solve for '?', using simple algebra (multiplying and dividing
both sides of the equation by the same thing, to eliminate everything but the '?' on the
right side) This gives us:
" ?" = (100 x 100 x
Y) /( 20 x 15). This simplifies to:
100Y/ 3. Answer E.
Do word problems whenever you're given them. Really try to set them up yourself.
You'll be helping yourself enormously in the long run, and even the short run.
Once you get the hang of them, you'll always have it. You'll be sending me e-mails of thank yous for many years to come.
(Feel free). |
