Overview: A Different Style of Reading
Reading math questions on the SAT and ACT takes special attention to exact detail, following directions precisely, and watching for key words. It is a different type of reading than students usually do in other sections of the test, such as reading comprehension or vocabulary sections. The “plot” of a math question has a beginning, middle, and the solution provides the end.
Attention to Detail
Other sections of the SAT or ACT may ask for the main ideas, interpretations, or points of view in a selection. Usually, comprehension of the entire selection doesn’t hinge on a single word or detail. However, successful solutions to math problems depend upon attention to detail. Questions like “1/3 is 1/4 of what number?” and “What is 1/3 of 1/4?” do not have the same solution.
Following Directions
Filling in the answer sheet correctly, as well as working the correct section in the time limit given are more obvious examples of following directions, but there are also some special symbols on some math problems. The goals of those problems are to test skill in substitution and logical reasoning. Those questions require suspension of disbelief, as well as following directions.
Watching for Key Words
Words such as exactly, at most, at least, fewer, and between refer to quantities. If an answer to a problem is “nonnegative” it can be zero, but is the answer is positive it cannot. Make sure all quantities in the question stem are accounted for when solving the problem.
Watch for Unnecessary Information
Math problems on tests, as well as math problems in homework, sometimes contain information that is not necessary to solve the problem. Sometimes this information is within the problem itself, and sometimes it is in the alternative answers. For example, suppose the statement given on a math question is “Union Station has exactly 5 gates”. One of the alternatives is “South Station has 7 gates.” Since nothing else in the question was about South Station, it is unnecessary information.
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