WizCast - SAT ACT Podcast by Wizako

Lexa Wiz: 00:03

Welcome to Wizcast, SAT podcasts by Wizako. I'm Lexa Wiz.

Kai Quest: 00:08

And I'm Kai Quest. Today, we're breaking down the digital SAT math section. Lexa, let's start with the basics. What's the structure like?

Lexa Wiz: 00:16

The digital SAT math section is pretty straightforward, Kai. Students get two modules, 22 questions each, with thirty five minutes per module. That's seventy minutes total. Here's what's interesting. Out of those 22 questions, 20 count toward your score, and two are pretest questions.

Kai Quest: 00:34

And what about the question formats? I know this comes up a lot with my students.

Lexa Wiz: 00:39

There are two types. 75% are multiple choice with four options, and 25% are student produced response questions where you input your own answer.

Kai Quest: 00:49

Let's dive into the four main domains. What's the breakdown there?

Lexa Wiz: 00:52

Algebra and advanced math are the heavy hitters, each at 35%. Then we have problem solving and data analysis at 15% and geometry and trigonometry at 15%.

Kai Quest: 01:04

Could you elaborate on what's covered in algebra? That's a significant chunk.

Lexa Wiz: 01:08

Absolutely. Algebra focuses on linear equations in one and two variables, linear functions, systems of linear equations, and linear inequalities. It's all about translating real world problems into mathematical equations.

Kai Quest: 01:22

And advanced math? Is it just more complex algebra?

Lexa Wiz: 01:25

It goes beyond that. Advanced math covers non linear equations, especially quadratic equations, absolute values, polynomials, and rational expressions. Think of it as algebra's sophisticated cousin.

Kai Quest: 01:38

What about problem solving and data analysis? That seems more practical.

Lexa Wiz: 01:42

It really is. This domain covers ratios, proportions, rates, percentages, and statistics. Students work with data interpretation, scatter plots, probability, and even concepts like margin of error.

Kai Quest: 01:56

And finally geometry and trigonometry.

Lexa Wiz: 01:58

This section tests spatial reasoning with areas, volumes, lines, angles, and triangle properties. It also includes trigonometric ratios and circle properties.

Kai Quest: 02:08

Any tips for time management during the test?

Lexa Wiz: 02:10

Each question averages about a minute and a half. But here's the pro tip. Some questions are going to be your best friends, taking just seconds to solve. Use that saved time for those tricky ones that need a bit more time and attention. And here's something I always tell my students.

Lexa Wiz: 02:27

Save five minutes at the end for a quick review. Trust me. You'll thank yourself when you catch that small calculation error in a question. It's like having a safety net for your score.

Kai Quest: 02:36

That's fantastic information, Lexa. We're wrapping up now. Any final thoughts for our listeners?

Lexa Wiz: 02:42

Remember, practice with the digital format and the built in calculator. Focus more on algebra and advanced math since they make up 70% of the content.

Kai Quest: 02:51

Thanks for tuning in to Wizcast. Until next time, keep practicing and stay confident.