Tag: SAT Preparation

Word Problems… !#$%@;*!!

Word problems can be… frustrating.  Most of their reputation arises from their use of words to describe a quantitative problem.  And if the problem’s author did not choose their words very carefully, you’ve got Trouble (with a capital T). So why are so many word problems assigned? Because they are more similar to the quantitative problems you might encounter in life than many of the practice problems in your textbook: you have to supply some insight and organization in order to arrive at a solution.

Just about every level of mathematics, not to mention chemistry and physics, seems to Continue reading Word Problems… !#$%@;*!!

Getting the most out of standardized test (SAT, ACT) practice books

1) For the SAT, I prefer the study guide and practice tests published by The College Board (it can be found at Amazon: The Official SAT Study Guide (2016 Edition)) as it contains good scoring guides and is published by the authors of the test. The College Board is now also providing on-line practice test resources, as well as an app for your phone which provides daily practice problems.

2) Most formulas needed to answer SAT questions will be given at the start of the test section.  Overall, it is more important to know how to use a formula than it is to memorize it.  In studying for the SAT, focus on understanding the mathematics instead of memorizing facts or formulas.

3) Always time yourself when taking a practice test.  This will help you develop a Continue reading Getting the most out of standardized test (SAT, ACT) practice books