x = 12. Subtract 2x from both sides to get x − 7 = 5, then add 7 to get x = 12. Linear equations like this are among the most common Math questions — practise solving them quickly.
Digital SAT Math — Topics, Desmos & Strategy
The digital SAT Math section has 44 questions in 70 minutes, across two adaptive modules. It covers algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, advanced maths, and some geometry and trigonometry — and a graphing calculator (Desmos) is built in for the entire section.
Most questions are multiple choice; some are "student-produced response" (you type the answer). There is no penalty for wrong answers.
What Math covers
| Area | Share | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra | Largest | Linear equations, inequalities and systems. |
| Advanced maths | Large | Quadratics, exponents, functions and nonlinear equations. |
| Problem-solving & data analysis | Medium | Ratios, percentages, probability and reading data. |
| Geometry & trigonometry | Smaller | Area, volume, angles, triangles and basic trig. |
Using the built-in Desmos calculator
- Desmos is available for the whole Math section (you may also bring an approved calculator).
- Use it to graph equations, find intersections and check answers quickly.
- For simple arithmetic, working by hand is often faster than typing into the tool.
- Practise with Desmos before test day so it saves time rather than slowing you down.
Strategy that works
- Master algebra and data analysis first — they are the largest share of questions.
- Translate word problems into equations immediately, then solve.
- Use Desmos strategically for graphing and checking, not for every step.
- Answer every question, including the student-produced responses (no penalty for wrong answers).
- Watch pacing — about 95 seconds per question — and flag hard ones to return to.
See SAT Math ideas move
Most SAT Math questions test a handful of ideas: lines, quadratics, circles, right triangles, trigonometry and data. These free simulations let you drag the numbers and watch the graph or shape respond, which makes the rules stick far better than memorising them.
- Linear equations: graphs, slope and simultaneous pairs
- Quadratic functions and their graphs
- Completing the Square and the Quadratic Formula
- Circle theorems
- Area of a Circle: Proof, Formula and Solved Problems
- Volume and Surface Area of Solids: Cube, Cuboid, Cylinder, Cone, Sphere
- Pythagorean Theorem
- Trigonometric Ratios and the Unit Circle
- Graphs of sin, cos and tan
- Similar Triangles: Scale Factor, AA, SSS, SAS and Shadow Heights
- Coordinate Geometry: Distance, Midpoint, Slope, Section Formula and Locus
- Mean, Median and Mode
- Probability: experimental vs theoretical probability
- Function Transformations: Shifts, Stretches and Reflections
- Complex Numbers: Sum, Product, Powers and Roots on the Argand Plane
- All science and math animations
Sample question (original, in the SAT format)
An original example in the official style — not a real test question.
$50. If $40 is 80% of the original, then original = 40 ÷ 0.8 = $50. Read carefully whether a figure is the original or the discounted amount.
Frequently asked questions
Yes — a graphing calculator (Desmos) is built into Bluebook for the entire Math section, and you may also bring your own approved calculator.
Algebra (the largest share), advanced maths (quadratics, functions), problem-solving and data analysis, and some geometry and trigonometry.
Most are multiple choice, but some are "student-produced response" where you type the answer. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so attempt every one.
Want a higher SAT Math score?
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