For many students, the most challenging SAT® Math questions are word problems. Often times, the actual math concepts on these Level 5 SAT problems are not that difficult. They are challenging simply because of their confusing and intentionally deceptive language. So how do you solve them? First, you need to recognize which word problems you struggle with and learn what strategies can help you. Then, you need to practice, practice, practice.
The Most Common "Level 5" Sat Math word problems fall into 5 categories, each of which utilizes a different strategy:
Problem Type |
Strategy |
| Tricky Wording |
Interpret the information one sentence or phrase at a time. Often times the hardest SAT® word problems don't have shortcuts or require formulas. You just have to meticulously interpret the information in the prompt. |
| Crazy Variables | Plug in numbers for variables. This is the first technique that every SAT book and prep course teaches. It may seem trivial for easy and medium difficulty problems, but it can save time and cut down on errors for high difficulty problems. |
| Rules & Formulas | Know your SAT math formulas well enough to use them in confusing scenarios. This goes beyond knowing the few geometry formulas listed at the front of the SAT math section. The SAT covers everything from exponents to indirect variation to permutations. If you're aiming for a perfect 800 on the SAT math section, you better master them all. |
| Long & Time-Consuming | Look for patterns and shortcuts. If the method you're using to solve a problem will take a long time, it's probably a trap to waste valuable time. Instead, look for the pattern or shortcut. |
| Geometry | Draw it! Treat geometry word problems like regular word problems. Know your formulas and interpret the information carefully. When necessary, draw out the information. |
Seems simple enough, right? Not really. The only way these strategies are helpful is if you practice using them. If tricky language keeps tricking you, then you must practice carefully reading through wordy and tricky questions in order to improve. If questions take too long, you need to practice your pacing on exceptionally tedious questions. Practice is the only way to improve your SAT score.
Below are two ways to help you master these tough SAT questions. The first provides free high difficulty SAT Math practice questions from the categories above. The second, which I suggest if you really need help on SAT word problems, is a full course with 50 high difficulty SAT Math word problems, 30 medium difficulty SAT word problems, 11 helpful lessons, and a complete list of must-know SAT rules and formulas. Good luck studying!
