Understanding the Tests
The SAT and ACT are the two major college entrance exams in the United States, and most four-year colleges accept either test. The SAT has a no-calculator math section (25 minutes, 20 questions) and a calculator section (55 minutes, 38 questions). The ACT has one math section (60 minutes, 60 questions) where calculators are allowed throughout.
The SAT emphasizes algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis, with some advanced topics like trigonometry and complex numbers. The ACT covers more ground breadth-wise, including matrices, vectors, and more trigonometry. Neither test tests calculus. The SAT tends to reward students who think conceptually; the ACT rewards students who work quickly and accurately.
General Test-Taking Strategies
Read the question carefully: Most test mistakes come from misreading, not from not knowing the math. Underline what the question is actually asking for—x, y, perimeter, area, the value of an expression. Watch for "not," "except," and "which of the following is false."
Use the answer choices: If you're stuck, backsolve—plug each answer choice into the problem until you find the one that works. This is often faster than solving algebraically, especially on messy problems. Alternatively, eliminate obviously wrong answers to improve your odds when you must guess.
Don't overwork: If you've spent 90 seconds on a problem and aren't close to a solution, move on. Mark it and come back. Spending four minutes on one problem at the expense of three you could solve easily is poor strategy.
SAT-Specific Strategies
The SAT's no-calculator section tests your fundamental skills. You need to be fluent in factoring, expanding, manipulating exponents, and solving equations quickly by hand. Practice mental math—much of what you do with a calculator can be done faster without one if you're fluent.
On both sections, the SAT includes several "system of equations" problems that can be solved by substitution or elimination, but also by adding the equations strategically. Look for opportunities to add equations to eliminate variables directly. The SAT also loves problems about average/sum relationships: if you know the average of n numbers is A, the sum is n × A.
The SAT includes "heart of algebra" problems—direct equation solving—and "passport to advanced math" problems that require recognizing polynomial and rational function structures. For these, knowing the shapes of graphs, factoring patterns, and exponent rules is essential.
ACT-Specific Strategies
The ACT is a faster test. With only one minute per question on average, pace is critical. Practice with a timer to build speed. The ACT includes more geometry problems than the SAT, so review area, perimeter, volume, and similarity ratios. Know your SOHCAHTOA trig ratios cold—the ACT often has 4-6 trigonometry questions.
The ACT sometimes includes matrix problems. Know how to add, subtract, and multiply 2×2 matrices, and how to find determinants. The ACT also tests logarithmic concepts, piecewise functions, and circle equations more frequently than the SAT.
Calculator Strategy
Even on the ACT's calculator section, a calculator won't save you if you don't know what to calculate. Use your calculator as a tool for arithmetic and graphing, not as a substitute for thinking. On the SAT's no-calculator section, practice doing arithmetic by hand—you'll find many calculations are simpler than they appear.
Know your calculator's limitations: it won't factor quadratics, it won't solve systems of equations, and it won't substitute for understanding function behavior. Using a calculator when you don't need one can actually slow you down.
The Week Before the Test
Don't try to learn new material the week before the test. Instead, focus on reviewing concepts you're already familiar with and taking full practice tests under realistic conditions. The College Board and ACT.org both offer free official practice tests. Take at least two full-length practice tests before test day to build stamina and identify any remaining weak areas.
Get a good night's sleep before the test. Eat a proper breakfast with protein. Bring an approved calculator (if taking the ACT) with fresh batteries. Know the test center location and arrival procedures. Being physically and mentally prepared is just as important as knowing the content.