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How the Top High School Students Solve Tough Math Problems

By APlus on 21 February 20 Blog

SAT courses

Read time: 3 mins

High school students who do well in math have learned effective strategies that give them the confidence to tackle the most difficult mathematical concepts. Where do they start with complex math problems? How do the top students build up the necessary confidence to feel ready for math assignments and tests?

The first step is to give students the opportunity to practice their math skills. It’s also helpful to seek guidance from tutors who create structured learning environments and provide individualized feedback to show students how they are progressing. These kinds of learning opportunities can improve SAT scores and increase achievement in math classes. Keep reading to find out more.

Reading Skills Help with Math Skills

When a student begins SAT classes, they will learn about problem-solving and data analysis questions, which involve the description of a problem to be solved. For these and other reading-based questions, there are a few points that will improve students’ capabilities and boost their confidence:

  • Draw: if the question describes a pictorial or geometric problem, it will be easier to solve if they can see it rather than try to hold the visual information in their minds.
  • Rephrase: students who practice re-writing or explaining the problem in their own words will gain a deeper understanding of concepts.
SAT classes

Students should be able to draw pictorial and geometric concepts

Students who apply reading skills to test and assignment questions will be able to solve these types of problems more efficiently and with more certainty and self-assurance.

Top Students Take SAT Prep Courses to Get to Know the Test

Whether a student excels in math or requires more guidance, SAT prep courses provide an opportunity to get to know the different types of math questions they need to be familiar with to succeed. Here is the breakdown of the math portion of the SAT:

  • Heart of Algebra: 19 questions
  • Problem Solving and Data Analysis: 17 questions
  • Passport to Advanced Math: 16 questions
  • Additional Topics in Math: 6 questions

When students can identify and recognize the different types of questions with ease, they can solve problems more quickly, because they will know which approach to use right away. When they know exactly what to expect on the SAT, they will be able to take a calm and composed approach to the math section.

How to Practice for Tests

Practice is key, but it is not that simple. Successful students and tutors will confirm the way you practice is especially important. These are some of the ways to ensure math practice is productive:

  • Timing: practice questions with a timer, so students are used to the pace of the test
  • Memorize: it is important to recall frequently used formulas and facts
  • Calculator use: practice multiplication, division, and sketching the graph of a line without a calculator. This will help students save time for more difficult questions!
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The right kind of practice can relieve stress

For each of these practice points, along with many others, the guidance of an experienced teacher or tutor will help a student have a conceptual understanding along with efficient strategies. Approaching math with a plan will help students connect math to the real world, demystify the most complex problems, and instill them with a strong sense of confidence.

Looking for SAT courses to improve math scores?

ASC A+ has what you need!