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The Ultimate Guide to SAT Math: From Fundamentals to an 800

Published on August 30, 2025(Updated on October 25, 2025)·12 min read

Full Disclosure: I'm a Math Person

I want to be completely transparent. I scored an 800 in Math on my first practice test (the one where I got a 1340 overall). Because of this, I don't have a magic list of tips and tricks that took my score from a 600 to an 800.

But I do know what it takes to perform at that level consistently, and I know how you can get there too.

The Real Secret: Relentless, Timed Practice

The SAT Math section doesn't test incredibly complex math. It tests your absolute mastery of foundational concepts from Algebra, Geometry, and Data Analysis under pressure. You master these concepts not by watching videos, but by doing problems. Lots and lots of problems.

My philosophy for math is simple:

  1. Use This Website: The single best way to prepare for the math section is to take full, timed practice tests using the official material available right here on Sat DB.
  2. Embrace the Calculator: The built-in Desmos calculator is your most powerful tool. Use it for everything you can. Graph systems of equations instead of solving them by hand. Check your answers. It's not cheating; it's using the tools provided.
  3. Analyze Every Mistake: When you get a question wrong, don't just look at the right answer and move on. Understand why you got it wrong.
    • Was it a careless error? (Be more careful next time).
    • Was it a concept you didn't know? (Go learn that concept).
    • Did you run out of time? (Practice more to get faster).

The path to an 800 isn't a secret. It's a grind. But by doing timed sections, reviewing your errors, and solidifying your foundational knowledge, you can achieve a score you'll be proud of.

The Detailed Guide: What You Actually Need to Know

Philosophy is great, but you need a practical plan. The SAT Math test is broken down into four main categories. Here’s what they are and how to dominate them, with a heavy emphasis on using your calculator effectively.

1. Heart of Algebra (About 35% of the Test)

This is the foundation. It covers linear equations, inequalities, and systems.

Key Concepts:

  • Solving for x in multi-step equations.
  • Interpreting linear word problems (e.g., "y = mx + b" where m is the rate and b is the starting amount).
  • Solving systems of linear equations.
  • Graphing and interpreting linear inequalities.

Your Best Friend, Desmos:

  • Systems of Equations: NEVER solve these by hand (substitution/elimination) unless you are forced to. Type both equations directly into Desmos. The answer is the (x, y) coordinate where the lines intersect. Click on the intersection point, and Desmos will give you the exact coordinates.
  • Inequalities: Type the inequality into Desmos (e.g., y < 2x + 1). It will shade the solution area. This is invaluable for "which point is a solution" questions.

2. Advanced Math (About 35% of the Test)

This category includes everything beyond linear equations: quadratics, exponents, radicals, and polynomials.

Key Concepts:

  • Factoring and solving quadratic equations (ax² + bx + c = 0).
  • Understanding the properties of parabolas (vertex, intercepts, axis of symmetry).
  • Manipulating exponential expressions (e.g., (x^a)^b = x^(ab)).
  • Polynomial long division and synthetic division (rare, but good to know).

Your Best Friend, Desmos:

  • Finding Roots/Solutions: Graph the equation (e.g., y = x² - 3x + 2). The solutions are the x-intercepts. Click them. Done.
  • Finding the Vertex: Graph the parabola. The highest or lowest point is the vertex. Click it. Desmos gives you the coordinates. This instantly answers any "maximum" or "minimum" value questions.
  • Solving Complex Systems: If you have a system with a line and a parabola, graph both. The intersection points are your solutions.

3. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis (About 15% of the Test)

This is "real-world" math: ratios, percentages, proportions, and interpreting data.

Key Concepts:

  • Calculating percentages and percent change.
  • Setting up and solving proportions.
  • Understanding ratios.
  • Reading charts, graphs, and tables.
  • Concepts of mean, median, and mode.

Strategy Over Calculation:

  • Read Carefully: These questions try to trick you with wording. Are they asking for the percentage of the total, or the percentage of a subgroup?
  • Proportions are Key: Many problems can be set up as a simple cross-multiplication problem: a/b = c/d.
  • The Calculator is for Arithmetic: Use the calculator for the simple calculations, but your brain is needed to set up the problem correctly.

4. Geometry and Trigonometry (About 15% of the Test)

This covers shapes, angles, and basic trigonometry.

Key Concepts:

  • Circles: Equations ((x-h)² + (y-k)² = r²), area, circumference, arc length, sector area.
  • Triangles: Pythagorean theorem, special right triangles (45-45-90, 30-60-90), area.
  • Angles: Rules for parallel lines, vertical angles, etc.
  • Trigonometry: SOHCAHTOA (sin, cos, tan), and the relationship sin(x) = cos(90-x).
  • Volume: Formulas for cylinders, cones, spheres (these are given on the reference sheet!).

Don't Forget the Reference Sheet!

  • The Digital SAT has a built-in reference sheet with most of the key geometry formulas. Know where it is and what's on it. You don't need to memorize the volume of a sphere.
  • Desmos for Trig: Desmos can calculate trig functions. Make sure you are in the correct mode (degrees or radians) based on the question.

Universal Strategies for Tricky Problems

When you're stuck, don't just guess. Try one of these powerful techniques:

  • Plugging In Numbers: If you see variables in the answer choices, make up your own simple numbers for the variables in the problem (e.g., pick x=2 or n=10). Solve the problem to get a target number. Then, plug your made-up numbers into the answer choices to see which one gives you your target.
  • Working Backwards: For some multiple-choice questions, you can plug the answer choices back into the problem to see which one works. Start with choice B or C.