Want to test yourself against the most difficult SAT math questions? Want to know what makes these questions so difficult and how best to solve them? If you're ready to really sink your teeth into the SAT math section and have your sights set on that perfect score, then this is the guide for you. We've put together what we believe to be the 15 most difficult questions for the current SAT, with strategies and answer explanations for each. These are all hard SAT Math questions from College Board SAT practice tests, which means understanding them is one of the best ways to study for those of you aiming for perfection. Image: Sonia Sevilla/Wikimedia The third and fourth sections of the SAT will always be math sections. The first math subsection (labeled "3") does not allow you to use a calculator, while the second math subsection (labeled as "4") does allow the use of a calculator. Don't worry too much about the no-calculator section, though: if you're not allowed to use a calculator on a question, it means you don't need a calculator to answer it. Each math subsection is arranged in order of ascending difficulty (where the longer it takes to solve a problem and the fewer people who answer it correctly, the more difficult it is). On each subsection, question 1 will be "easy" and question 15 will be considered "difficult." However, the ascending difficulty resets from easy to hard on the grid-ins. Hence, multiple choice questions are arranged in increasing difficulty (questions 1 and 2 will be the easiest, questions 14 and 15 will be the hardest), but the difficulty level resets for the grid-in section (meaning questions 16 and 17 will again be "easy" and questions 19 and 20 will be very difficult). With very few exceptions, then, the most difficult SAT math problems will be clustered at the end of the multiple choice segments or the second half of the grid-in questions. In addition to their placement on the test, though, these questions also share a few other commonalities. In a minute, we'll look at example questions and how to solve them, then analyze them to figure out what these types of questions have in common. If you're just getting started in your study prep (or if you've simply skipped this first, crucial step), definitely stop and take a full practice test to gauge your current scoring level. Check out our guide to all the free SAT practice tests available online and then sit down to take a test all at once. The absolute best way to assess your current level is to simply take the SAT practice test as if it were real, keeping strict timing and working straight through with only the allowed breaks (we know—probably not your favorite way to spend a Saturday). Once you've got a good idea of your current level and percentile ranking, you can set milestones and goals for your ultimate SAT Math score. If you're currently scoring in the 200-400 or the 400-600 range on SAT Math, your best bet is first to check out our guide to improving your math score to be consistently at or over a 600 before you start in trying to tackle the most difficult math problems on the test. If, however, you're already scoring above a 600 on the Math section and want to test your mettle for the real SAT, then definitely proceed to the rest of this guide. If you're aiming for perfect (or close to), then you'll need to know what the most difficult SAT math questions look like and how to solve them. And luckily, that's exactly what we'll do. WARNING: Since there are a limited number of official SAT practice tests, you may want to wait to read this article until you've attempted all or most of the first four official practice tests (since most of the questions below were taken from those tests). If you're worried about spoiling those tests, stop reading this guide now; come back and read it when you've completed them. Now let's get to our list of questions (whoo)! Image: Niytx/DeviantArt Now that you're sure you should be attempting these questions, let's dive right in! We've curated 15 of the most difficult SAT Math questions for you to try below, along with walkthroughs of how to get the answer (if you're stumped). $$C=5/9(F-32)$$ The equation above shows how temperature $F$, measured in degrees Fahrenheit, relates to a temperature $C$, measured in degrees Celsius. Based on the equation, which of the following must be true? A) I only ANSWER EXPLANATION: Think of the equation as an equation for a line $$y=mx+b$$ where in this case $$C= {5}/{9} (F−32)$$ or $$C={5}/{9}F −{5}/{9}(32)$$ You can see the slope of the graph is ${5}/{9}$, which means that for an increase of 1 degree Fahrenheit, the increase is ${5}/{9}$ of 1 degree Celsius. $$C= {5}/{9} (F)$$ $$C= {5}/{9} (1)= {5}/{9}$$ Therefore, statement I is true. This is the equivalent to saying that an increase of 1 degree Celsius is equal to an increase of ${9}/{5}$ degrees Fahrenheit. $$C= {5}/{9} (F)$$ $$1= {5}/{9} (F)$$ $$(F)={9}/{5}$$ Since ${9}/{5}$ = 1.8, statement II is true. The only answer that has both statement I and statement II as true is D, but if you have time and want to be absolutely thorough, you can also check to see if statement III (an increase of ${5}/{9}$ degree Fahrenheit is equal to a temperature increase of 1 degree Celsius) is true: $$C= {5}/{9} (F)$$ $$C= {5}/{9} ({5}/{9})$$ $$C= {25} /{81} (\which \is ≠ 1)$$ An increase of $5/9$ degree Fahrenheit leads to an increase of ${25}/{81}$, not 1 degree, Celsius, and so Statement III is not true. The final answer is D. The equation ${24x^2 + 25x -47}/{ax-2} = -8x-3-{53/{ax-2}}$ is true for all values of $x≠2/a$, where $a$ is a constant. What is the value of $a$? A) -16 ANSWER EXPLANATION: There are two ways to solve this question. The faster way is to multiply each side of the given equation by $ax-2$ (so you can get rid of the fraction). When you multiply each side by $ax-2$, you should have: $$24x^2 + 25x - 47 = (-8x-3)(ax-2) - 53$$ You should then multiply $(-8x-3)$ and $(ax-2)$ using FOIL. $$24x^2 + 25x - 47 = -8ax^2 - 3ax +16x + 6 - 53$$ Then, reduce on the right side of the equation $$24x^2 + 25x - 47 = -8ax^2 - 3ax +16x - 47$$ Since the coefficients of the $x^2$-term have to be equal on both sides of the equation, $−8a = 24$, or $a = −3$. The other option which is longer and more tedious is to attempt to plug in all of the answer choices for a and see which answer choice makes both sides of the equation equal. Again, this is the longer option, and I do not recommend it for the actual SAT as it will waste too much time. The final answer is B. If $3x-y = 12$, what is the value of ${8^x}/{2^y}$? A) $2^{12}$ ANSWER EXPLANATION: One approach is to express $${8^x}/{2^y}$$ so that the numerator and denominator are expressed with the same base. Since 2 and 8 are both powers of 2, substituting $2^3$ for 8 in the numerator of ${8^x}/{2^y}$ gives $${(2^3)^x}/{2^y}$$ which can be rewritten $${2^3x}/{2^y}$$ Since the numerator and denominator of have a common base, this expression can be rewritten as $2^(3x−y)$. In the question, it states that $3x − y = 12$, so one can substitute 12 for the exponent, $3x − y$, which means that $${8^x}/{2^y}= 2^12$$ The final answer is A. Points A and B lie on a circle with radius 1, and arc ${AB}↖⌢$ has a length of $π/3$. What fraction of the circumference of the circle is the length of arc ${AB}↖⌢$? ANSWER EXPLANATION: To figure out the answer to this question, you'll first need to know the formula for finding the circumference of a circle. The circumference, $C$, of a circle is $C = 2πr$, where $r$ is the radius of the circle. For the given circle with a radius of 1, the circumference is $C = 2(π)(1)$, or $C = 2π$. To find what fraction of the circumference the length of ${AB}↖⌢$ is, divide the length of the arc by the circumference, which gives $π/3 ÷ 2π$. This division can be represented by $π/3 * {1/2}π = 1/6$. The fraction $1/6$ can also be rewritten as $0.166$ or $0.167$. The final answer is $1/6$, $0.166$, or $0.167$. $${8-i}/{3-2i}$$ If the expression above is rewritten in the form $a+bi$, where $a$ and $b$ are real numbers, what is the value of $a$? (Note: $i=√{-1}$) ANSWER EXPLANATION: To rewrite ${8-i}/{3-2i}$ in the standard form $a + bi$, you need to multiply the numerator and denominator of ${8-i}/{3-2i}$ by the conjugate, $3 + 2i$. This equals $$({8-i}/{3-2i})({3+2i}/{3+2i})={24+16i-3+(-i)(2i)}/{(3^2)-(2i)^2}$$ Since $i^2=-1$, this last fraction can be reduced simplified to $$ {24+16i-3i+2}/{9-(-4)}={26+13i}/{13}$$ which simplifies further to $2 + i$. Therefore, when ${8-i}/{3-2i}$ is rewritten in the standard form a + bi, the value of a is 2. The final answer is A. In triangle $ABC$, the measure of $∠B$ is 90°, $BC=16$, and $AC$=20. Triangle $DEF$ is similar to triangle $ABC$, where vertices $D$, $E$, and $F$ correspond to vertices $A$, $B$, and $C$, respectively, and each side of triangle $DEF$ is $1/3$ the length of the corresponding side of triangle $ABC$. What is the value of $sinF$? ANSWER EXPLANATION: Triangle ABC is a right triangle with its right angle at B. Therefore, $\ov {AC}$ is the hypotenuse of right triangle ABC, and $\ov {AB}$ and $\ov {BC}$ are the legs of right triangle ABC. According to the Pythagorean theorem, $$AB =√{20^2-16^2}=√{400-256}=√{144}=12$$ Since triangle DEF is similar to triangle ABC, with vertex F corresponding to vertex C, the measure of $\angle ∠ {F}$ equals the measure of $\angle ∠ {C}$. Therefore, $sin F = sin C$. From the side lengths of triangle ABC, $$sinF ={\opposite \side}/{\hypotenuse}={AB}/{AC}={12}/{20}={3}/{5}$$ Therefore, $sinF ={3}/{5}$. The final answer is ${3}/{5}$ or 0.6. The incomplete table above summarizes the number of left-handed students and right-handed students by gender for the eighth grade students at Keisel Middle School. There are 5 times as many right-handed female students as there are left-handed female students, and there are 9 times as many right-handed male students as there are left-handed male students. if there is a total of 18 left-handed students and 122 right-handed students in the school, which of the following is closest to the probability that a right-handed student selected at random is female? (Note: Assume that none of the eighth-grade students are both right-handed and left-handed.) A) 0.410 ANSWER EXPLANATION: In order to solve this problem, you should create two equations using two variables ($x$ and $y$) and the information you're given. Let $x$ be the number of left-handed female students and let $y$ be the number of left-handed male students. Using the information given in the problem, the number of right-handed female students will be $5x$ and the number of right-handed male students will be $9y$. Since the total number of left-handed students is 18 and the total number of right-handed students is 122, the system of equations below must be true: $$x + y = 18$$ $$5x + 9y = 122$$ When you solve this system of equations, you get $x = 10$ and $y = 8$. Thus, 5*10, or 50, of the 122 right-handed students are female. Therefore, the probability that a right-handed student selected at random is female is ${50}/{122}$, which to the nearest thousandth is 0.410. The final answer is A. Use the following information for both question 7 and question 8. If shoppers enter a store at an average rate of $r$ shoppers per minute and each stays in the store for average time of $T$ minutes, the average number of shoppers in the store, $N$, at any one time is given by the formula $N=rT$. This relationship is known as Little's law. The owner of the Good Deals Store estimates that during business hours, an average of 3 shoppers per minute enter the store and that each of them stays an average of 15 minutes. The store owner uses Little's law to estimate that there are 45 shoppers in the store at any time. Little's law can be applied to any part of the store, such as a particular department or the checkout lines. The store owner determines that, during business hours, approximately 84 shoppers per hour make a purchase and each of these shoppers spend an average of 5 minutes in the checkout line. At any time during business hours, about how many shoppers, on average, are waiting in the checkout line to make a purchase at the Good Deals Store? ANSWER EXPLANATION: Since the question states that Little's law can be applied to any single part of the store (for example, just the checkout line), then the average number of shoppers, $N$, in the checkout line at any time is $N = rT$, where $r$ is the number of shoppers entering the checkout line per minute and $T$ is the average number of minutes each shopper spends in the checkout line. Since 84 shoppers per hour make a purchase, 84 shoppers per hour enter the checkout line. However, this needs to be converted to the number of shoppers per minute (in order to be used with $T = 5$). Since there are 60 minutes in one hour, the rate is ${84 \shoppers \per \hour}/{60 \minutes} = 1.4$ shoppers per minute. Using the given formula with $r = 1.4$ and $T = 5$ yields $$N = rt = (1.4)(5) = 7$$ Therefore, the average number of shoppers, $N$, in the checkout line at any time during business hours is 7. The final answer is 7. The owner of the Good Deals Store opens a new store across town. For the new store, the owner estimates that, during business hours, an average of 90 shoppers per hour enter the store and each of them stays an average of 12 minutes. The average number of shoppers in the new store at any time is what percent less than the average number of shoppers in the original store at any time? (Note: Ignore the percent symbol when entering your answer. For example, if the answer is 42.1%, enter 42.1) ANSWER EXPLANATION: According to the original information given, the estimated average number of shoppers in the original store at any time (N) is 45. In the question, it states that, in the new store, the manager estimates that an average of 90 shoppers per hour (60 minutes) enter the store, which is equivalent to 1.5 shoppers per minute (r). The manager also estimates that each shopper stays in the store for an average of 12 minutes (T). Thus, by Little's law, there are, on average, $N = rT = (1.5)(12) = 18$ shoppers in the new store at any time. This is $${45-18}/{45} * 100 = 60$$ percent less than the average number of shoppers in the original store at any time. The final answer is 60. In the $xy$-plane, the point $(p,r)$ lies on the line with equation $y=x+b$, where $b$ is a constant. The point with coordinates $(2p, 5r)$ lies on the line with equation $y=2x+b$. If $p≠0$, what is the value of $r/p$? A) $2/5$ B) $3/4$ C) $4/3$ D) $5/2$ ANSWER EXPLANATION: Since the point $(p,r)$ lies on the line with equation $y=x+b$, the point must satisfy the equation. Substituting $p$ for $x$ and $r$ for $y$ in the equation $y=x+b$ gives $r=p+b$, or $\bi b$ = $\bi r-\bi p$. Similarly, since the point $(2p,5r)$ lies on the line with the equation $y=2x+b$, the point must satisfy the equation. Substituting $2p$ for $x$ and $5r$ for $y$ in the equation $y=2x+b$ gives: $5r=2(2p)+b$ $5r=4p+b$ $\bi b$ = $\bo 5 \bi r-\bo 4\bi p$. Next, we can set the two equations equal to $b$ equal to each other and simplify: $b=r-p=5r-4p$ $3p=4r$ Finally, to find $r/p$, we need to divide both sides of the equation by $p$ and by $4$: $3p=4r$ $3={4r}/p$ $3/4=r/p$ The correct answer is B, $3/4$. If you picked choices A and D, you may have incorrectly formed your answer out of the coefficients in the point $(2p, 5r)$. If you picked Choice C, you may have confused $r$ and $p$. Note that while this is in the calculator section of the SAT, you absolutely do not need your calculator to solve it! A) 261.8 ANSWER EXPLANATION: The volume of the grain silo can be found by adding the volumes of all the solids of which it is composed (a cylinder and two cones). The silo is made up of a cylinder (with height 10 feet and base radius 5 feet) and two cones (each with height 5 ft and base radius 5 ft). The formulas given at the beginning of the SAT Math section: Volume of a Cone $$V={1}/{3}πr^2h$$ Volume of a Cylinder $$V=πr^2h$$ can be used to determine the total volume of the silo. Since the two cones have identical dimensions, the total volume, in cubic feet, of the silo is given by $$V_{silo}=π(5^2)(10)+(2)({1}/{3})π(5^2)(5)=({4}/{3})(250)π$$ which is approximately equal to 1,047.2 cubic feet. The final answer is D. If $x$ is the average (arithmetic mean) of $m$ and $9$, $y$ is the average of $2m$ and $15$, and $z$ is the average of $3m$ and $18$, what is the average of $x$, $y$, and $z$ in terms of $m$? A) $m+6$ ANSWER EXPLANATION: Since the average (arithmetic mean) of two numbers is equal to the sum of the two numbers divided by 2, the equations $x={m+9}/{2}$, $y={2m+15}/{2}$, $z={3m+18}/{2}$are true. The average of $x$, $y$, and $z$ is given by ${x + y + z}/{3}$. Substituting the expressions in m for each variable ($x$, $y$, $z$) gives $$[{m+9}/{2}+{2m+15}/{2}+{3m+18}/{2}]/3$$ This fraction can be simplified to $m + 7$. The final answer is B. The function $f(x)=x^3-x^2-x-{11/4}$ is graphed in the $xy$-plane above. If $k$ is a constant such that the equation $f(x)=k$ has three real solutions, which of the following could be the value of $k$? ANSWER EXPLANATION: The equation $f(x) = k$ gives the solutions to the system of equations $$y = f(x) = x^3-x^2-x-{11}/{4}$$ and $$y = k$$ A real solution of a system of two equations corresponds to a point of intersection of the graphs of the two equations in the $xy$-plane. The graph of $y = k$ is a horizontal line that contains the point $(0, k)$ and intersects the graph of the cubic equation three times (since it has three real solutions). Given the graph, the only horizontal line that would intersect the cubic equation three times is the line with the equation $y = −3$, or $f(x) = −3$. Therefore, $k$ is $-3$. The final answer is D. $$q={1/2}nv^2$$ The dynamic pressure $q$ generated by a fluid moving with velocity $v$ can be found using the formula above, where $n$ is the constant density of the fluid. An aeronautical engineer users the formula to find the dynamic pressure of a fluid moving with velocity $v$ and the same fluid moving with velocity 1.5$v$. What is the ratio of the dynamic pressure of the faster fluid to the dynamic pressure of the slower fluid? ANSWER EXPLANATION: To solve this problem, you need to set up to equations with variables. Let $q_1$ be the dynamic pressure of the slower fluid moving with velocity $v_1$, and let $q_2$ be the dynamic pressure of the faster fluid moving with velocity $v_2$. Then $$v_2 =1.5v_1$$ Given the equation $q = {1}/{2}nv^2$, substituting the dynamic pressure and velocity of the faster fluid gives $q_2 = {1}/{2}n(v_2)^2$. Since $v_2 =1.5v_1$, the expression $1.5v_1$ can be substituted for $v_2$ in this equation, giving $q_2 = {1}/{2}n(1.5v_1)^2$. By squaring $1.5$, you can rewrite the previous equation as $$q_2 = (2.25)({1}/{2})n(v_1)^2 = (2.25)q_1$$ Therefore, the ratio of the dynamic pressure of the faster fluid is $${q2}/{q1} = {2.25 q_1}/{q_1}= 2.25$$ The final answer is 2.25 or 9/4. For a polynomial $p(x)$, the value of $p(3)$ is $-2$. Which of the following must be true about $p(x)$? A) $x-5$ is a factor of $p(x)$. ANSWER EXPLANATION: If the polynomial $p(x)$ is divided by a polynomial of the form $x+k$ (which accounts for all of the possible answer choices in this question), the result can be written as $${p(x)}/{x+k}=q(x)+{r}/{x+k}$$ where $q(x)$ is a polynomial and $r$ is the remainder. Since $x + k$ is a degree-1 polynomial (meaning it only includes $x^1$ and no higher exponents), the remainder is a real number. Therefore, $p(x)$ can be rewritten as $p(x) = (x + k)q(x) + r$, where $r$ is a real number. The question states that $p(3) = -2$, so it must be true that $$-2 = p(3) = (3 + k)q(3) + r$$ Now we can plug in all the possible answers. If the answer is A, B, or C, $r$ will be $0$, while if the answer is D, $r$ will be $-2$. A. $-2 = p(3) = (3 + (-5))q(3) + 0$ This could be true, but only if $q(3)=1$ B. $-2 = p(3) = (3 + (-2))q(3) + 0$ This could be true, but only if $q(3)=2$ C. $-2 = p(3) = (3 + 2)q(3) + 0$ This could be true, but only if $q(3)={-2}/{5}$ D. $-2 = p(3) = (3 + (-3))q(3) + (-2)$ This will always be true no matter what $q(3)$ is. Of the answer choices, the only one that must be true about $p(x)$ is D, that the remainder when $p(x)$ is divided by $x-3$ is -2. The final answer is D. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? We've written a guide about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now: You deserve all the naps after running through those questions. It's important to understand what makes these hard questions "hard." By doing so, you'll be able to both understand and solve similar questions when you see them on test day, as well as have a better strategy for identifying and correcting your previous SAT math errors. In this section, we'll look at what these questions have in common and give examples of each type. Some of the reasons why the hardest math questions are the hardest math questions is because they: Here, we must deal with imaginary numbers and fractions all at once. Secret to success: Think of what applicable math you could use to solve the problem, do one step at a time, and try each technique until you find one that works! Remember: the more steps you need to take, the easier to mess up somewhere along the line! We must solve this problem in steps (doing several averages) to unlock the rest of the answers in a domino effect. This can get confusing, especially if you're stressed or running out of time. Secret to success: Take it slow, take it step by step, and double-check your work so you don't make mistakes! For example, many students are less familiar with functions than they are with fractions and percentages, so most function questions are considered "high difficulty" problems. If you don't know your way around functions, this would be a tricky problem. Secret to success: Review math concepts that you don't have as much familiarity with such as functions. We suggest using our great free SAT Math review guides. It can be difficult to figure out exactly what some questions are asking, much less figure out how to solve them. This is especially true when the question is located at the end of the section, and you are running out of time. Because this question provides so much information without a diagram, it can be difficult to puzzle through in the limited time allowed. Secret to success: Take your time, analyze what is being asked of you, and draw a diagram if it's helpful to you. With so many different variables in play, it is quite easy to get confused. Secret to success: Take your time, analyze what is being asked of you, and consider if plugging in numbers is a good strategy to solve the problem (it wouldn't be for the question above, but would be for many other SAT variable questions). The SAT is a marathon and the better prepared you are for it, the better you'll feel on test day. Knowing how to handle the hardest questions the test can throw at you will make taking the real SAT seem a lot less daunting. If you felt that these questions were easy, make sure not underestimate the effect of adrenaline and fatigue on your ability to solve problems. As you continue to study, always adhere to the proper timing guidelines and try to take full tests whenever possible. This is the best way to recreate the actual testing environment so that you can prepare for the real deal. If you felt these questions were challenging, be sure to strengthen your math knowledge by checking out our individual math topic guides for the SAT. There, you'll see more detailed explanations of the topics in question as well as more detailed answer breakdowns. Felt that these questions were harder than you were expecting? Take a look at all the topics covered in the SAT math section and then note which sections were particular difficulty for you. Next, take a gander at our individual math guides to help you shore up any of those weak areas. Running out of time on the SAT math section? Our guide will help you beat the clock and maximize your score. Aiming for a perfect score? Check out our guide on how to get a perfect 800 on the SAT math section, written by a perfect-scorer. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? Check out our best-in-class online SAT prep classes. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your SAT score by 160 points or more. Our classes are entirely online, and they're taught by SAT experts. If you liked this article, you'll love our classes. Along with expert-led classes, you'll get personalized homework with thousands of practice problems organized by individual skills so you learn most effectively. We'll also give you a step-by-step, custom program to follow so you'll never be confused about what to study next. Try it risk-free today:
Brief Overview of SAT Math
But First: Should You Be Focusing on the Hardest Math Questions Right Now?
The 15 Hardest SAT Math Questions
No Calculator SAT Math Questions
Question 1
B) II only
C) III only
D) I and II onlyQuestion 2
B) -3
C) 3
D) 16Question 3
B) $4^4$
C) $8^2$
D) The value cannot be determined from the information given.Question 4
Question 5
Question 6
Calculator-Allowed SAT Math Questions
Question 7
B) 0.357
C) 0.333
D) 0.250Questions 8 & 9
Question 8
Question 9
Question 10
Question 11
A grain silo is built from two right circular cones and a right circular cylinder with internal measurements represented by the figure above. Of the following, which is closest to the volume of the grain silo, in cubic feet?
B) 785.4
C) 916.3
D) 1047.2Question 12
B) $m+7$
C) $2m+14$
D) $3m + 21$Question 13
Question 14
Question 15
B) $x-2$ is a factor of $p(x)$.
C) $x+2$ is a factor of $p(x)$.
D) The remainder when $p(x)$ is divided by $x-3$ is $-2$.
$-2=(3-5)q(3)$
$-2=(-2)q(3)$
$-2 = (3-2)q(3)$
$-2 = (-1)q(3)$
$-2 = (5)q(3)$
$-2 = (3 - 3)q(3) + (-2)$
$-2 = (0)q(3) + (-2)$
What Do the Hardest SAT Math Questions Have in Common?
#1: Test Several Mathematical Concepts at Once
#2: Involve a Lot of Steps
#3: Test Concepts That You Have Limited Familiarity With
#4: Are Worded in Unusual or Convoluted Ways
#5: Use Many Different Variables
The Take-Aways
What's Next?
Courtney Montgomery
About the Author
Courtney scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT in high school and went on to graduate from Stanford University with a degree in Cultural and Social Anthropology. She is passionate about bringing education and the tools to succeed to students from all backgrounds and walks of life, as she believes open education is one of the great societal equalizers. She has years of tutoring experience and writes creative works in her free time.
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FAQs
What is the hardest math on the SAT? ›
Linear equations and inequalities and their graphs and systems. Problem Solving and Data Analysis: 29% of test, 17 questions. Ratios, proportions, percentages, and units; analyzing graphical data, probabilities, and statistics. Passport to Advanced Math: 28% of test, 16 questions.
What's the answer to x3 y3 z3 K? ›The equation x3+y3+z3=k is known as the sum of cubes problem. For decades, a math puzzle has stumped the smartest mathematicians in the world. x3+y3+z3=k, with k being all the numbers from one to 100, is a Diophantine equation that's sometimes known as "summing of three cubes." ∴ The required result will be 3xyz.
Has 3X 1 been solved? ›After that, the 3X + 1 problem has appeared in various forms. It is one of the most infamous unsolved puzzles in the word. Prizes have been offered for its solution for more than forty years, but no one has completely and successfully solved it [5].
What is the hardest math question answer? ›Today's mathematicians would probably agree that the Riemann Hypothesis is the most significant open problem in all of math. It's one of the seven Millennium Prize Problems, with $1 million reward for its solution.
How hard is a 800 math SAT? ›It certainly isn't easy to score 800 on SAT Math, and at the same time, scoring 800 isn't unthinkably difficult. Of course, scoring an 800 takes more than just knowing high school math well. You also have to handle the time limit of the SAT and answer dozens of questions without making an error.
How rare is a perfect math SAT score? ›The College Board doesn't report the exact number of students who receive a perfect score, but we do have some understanding of its rarity. Based on tests taken between 2020 and 2021, the 99th+ percentile score range was 1560-1600. This means that less than 1% of test-takers scored in that range.
What should be added to x3 3x2y 3xy2 y3 to get x3 y3? ›Hence, −3x2y−3xy2 should be added to x3+3x2y+3xy2+y3 to get x3+y3.
What is the answer of y3 27? ›Summary: The value of y in the equation y3 = 27 is 3.
What is 3x 1 answer? ›In the 3x+1 problem, no matter what number you start with, you will always eventually reach 1. problem has been shown to be a computationally unsolvable problem.
Who created 3x 1? ›Whatever its exact origins, the 3x + 1 problem was certainly known to the mathematical community by the early 1950's; it was discovered in 1952 by B. Thwaites [69].
What is the world's longest math problem? ›
Andrew Wiles (UK), currently at Princeton University in New Jersey, USA, proved Fermat's Last Theorem in 1995. He showed that xn+yn=zn has no solutions in integers for n being equal to or greater than 3. The theorum was posed by Fermat in 1630, and stood for 365 years.
What is the most unsolvable math equation? ›The Euler-Mascheroni Constant
The character y is what is known as the Euler-Mascheroni constant and it has a value of 0.5772. This equation has been calculated up to almost half of a trillion digits and yet no one has been able to tell if it is a rational number or not.
Clay “to increase and disseminate mathematical knowledge.” The seven problems, which were announced in 2000, are the Riemann hypothesis, P versus NP problem, Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture, Hodge conjecture, Navier-Stokes equation, Yang-Mills theory, and Poincaré conjecture.
How hard is SAT Math? ›In a way, SAT Math isn't hard because it basically tests the math skills students typically learn in high school. SAT Math is somewhat hard because SAT Math questions ask things high school math doesn't ask, use convoluted wording, and involve many math topics, some of which are obscure.
What are the 6 hardest math problems? ›- Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture.
- Hodge conjecture.
- Navier–Stokes existence and smoothness.
- P versus NP.
- Riemann hypothesis.
- Yang–Mills existence and mass gap.
Essentially, Math 1 is the easier exam only if you don't know the advanced topics tested on Math 2. If you do know the Math 2 concepts, you'll find it easier than Math 1 because the material will be fresher in your mind, the questions are more straightforward, and the curve is kinder.
Is a 1800 Good on the SAT? ›For example, a score of 1800 represents the 81st percentile, meaning a student with a score of 1800 scored better than 81 percent of the people who took the SAT that year.
Can you get 770 Math SAT? ›Students scoring a 720 in Evidence-Based Reading & Writing in the national pool in 2021 were in the 96th percentile nationally, and students scoring a 770 were in the 99th percentile. For Math, a score of 740 is in the 95th percentile nationally and 800 is 99th percentile.
What was Mark Zuckerberg SAT score? ›Mark Zuckerberg.
The founder of Facebook scored the perfect 1600 on the SAT and attended Harvard University. There's no surprise there on the score or prestigious university!
Will Smith SAT score was a perfect 1600. A rare score few people have earned. Despite this incredible score, Will chose not to attend college, did not even enroll, and decided to pursue his career in music.
How much is 21a3 17a2 less than 89a3 64a2 6a 16? ›
So, 21a3−17a2 is 68a3−47a2+6a+16 less than 89a3−64a2+6a+16.
What should be added to xy y to obtain 2x² 3xy? ›Hence, x 2 + 2 x y - y 2 is the term that needs to be added to x 2 + x y + y 2 to obtain 2 x 2 + 3 x y .
What must be added to x3 3x − 8 to get 3x3 x2 6? ›So we have to add (2x3+x2−3x+14) to (x3+3x−8), to get the expression (3x3+x2+6).
What is the answer to x3 216? ›The value of the cube root of 216 is 6. It is the real solution of the equation x3 = 216.
What is the answer to 3x 7 19? ›Subtract 7 from 19 to get 12. Divide both sides by 3. Divide 12 by 3 to get 4.
What is the infinite math equation? ›x × ∞ = ∞
What math problem Cannot be solved? ›The Collatz Conjecture is the simplest math problem no one can solve — it is easy enough for almost anyone to understand but notoriously difficult to solve.
What is the most beautiful math? ›Euler's identity is an equality found in mathematics that has been compared to a Shakespearean sonnet and described as "the most beautiful equation." It is a special case of a foundational equation in complex arithmetic called Euler's Formula, which the late great physicist Richard Feynman called in his lectures (opens ...
Who discovered 2520? ›Discovered by the great sage Srinivasa Ramanujan, let's observe the number 2520. Ramanujan outnumbered mathematics, contributed immensely to the number theory, infinity series, continued fractions, and much more. The number 2520 seems to be one of many numbers, but in reality, it is not.
Who first make math? ›The earliest evidence of written mathematics dates back to the ancient Sumerians, who built the earliest civilization in Mesopotamia. They developed a complex system of metrology from 3000 BC.
What is the 4 2 1 rule math? ›
In anesthetic practice, this formula has been further simplified, with the hourly requirement referred to as the “4-2-1 rule” (4 mL/kg/hr for the first 10 kg of weight, 2 mL/kg/hr for the next 10 kg, and 1 mL/kg/hr for each kilogram thereafter.
Are there 7 unsolved math problems? ›The Clay Mathematics Institute officially designated the title Millennium Problem for the seven unsolved mathematical problems, the Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture, Hodge conjecture, Navier–Stokes existence and smoothness, P versus NP problem, Riemann hypothesis, Yang–Mills existence and mass gap, and Poincaré ...
Who is the human calculator girl? ›Shakuntala Devi (4 November 1929 – 21 April 2013) was an Indian mental calculator and writer, popularly known as the "Human Computer". Her talent earned her a place in the 1982 edition of The Guinness Book of World Records.
What is the easiest unsolved math problem? ›The Collatz conjecture is one of the most famous unsolved mathematical problems, because it's so simple, you can explain it to a primary-school-aged kid, and they'll probably be intrigued enough to try and find the answer for themselves. So here's how it goes: pick a number, any number. If it's even, divide it by 2.
What are the 7 unanswered math questions? ›Clay “to increase and disseminate mathematical knowledge.” The seven problems, which were announced in 2000, are the Riemann hypothesis, P versus NP problem, Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture, Hodge conjecture, Navier-Stokes equation, Yang-Mills theory, and Poincaré conjecture.
Is zero a number or not? ›0 (zero) is a number representing an empty quantity. In place-value notation such as the Hindu–Arabic numeral system, 0 also serves as a placeholder numerical digit, which works by multiplying digits to the left of 0 by the radix, usually by 10.
What is the oldest unanswered math problem? ›Since the 1995 proof of Fermat's Last Theorem, a problem which stood for 365 years, the current longest-standing maths problem is the conjecture posed by Christian Goldbach (1690-1764), a Russian mathematician, in 1742.
What math shows up the most on the SAT? ›While 90% of your questions will fall into the Heart of Algebra, Passport to Advanced Math, or Problem Solving and Data Analysis categories, the remaining 10% will simply be classified as Additional Topics. These topics include geometry, trigonometry, and problems with complex numbers.
What is the main math on the SAT? ›What topics are tested on the SAT Math test? The SAT Math test can be broken down into 4 main content areas: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math, and Additional Topics.
Is the math on the SAT hard? ›In a way, SAT Math isn't hard because it basically tests the math skills students typically learn in high school. SAT Math is somewhat hard because SAT Math questions ask things high school math doesn't ask, use convoluted wording, and involve many math topics, some of which are obscure.
How many math questions can I get wrong on the SAT? ›
You can find official SAT practice tests and their scoring tables at the College Board. As you can see with the above SAT scoring chart, it's possible to get some questions wrong and still earn the max SAT score. Generally speaking, you can miss 1-2 questions on each section and still get a perfect 1600.
How many get a perfect math SAT score? ›How Many People Get A Perfect SAT Score? Yearly, less than 1% of all test-takers get a perfect score. That's hundreds out of nearly three million people who take the test. The people who score perfect aren't necessarily the smartest test-takers–but they are often the most prepared.
Is the SAT Math harder than ACT math? ›Difficulty Depends on the Student
While there are similar mathematical concepts on both tests, students might find one or the other more difficult based on their own math skills. This is true of the tests themselves as well. The ACT isn't harder than the SAT or vice versa, despite what the myths say.
Every answer choice on the SAT will have a statistically even distribution of 1 in 4 for each answer choice letter, A, B, C, or D. In other words? There is no most common answer on the SAT. Ultimately, guessing C (or any letter!) will give you the correct answer only a statistical 25% of the time.
What math is on the SAT 2023? ›The Math sections require a deep understanding of algebra, but the test provides basic geometry formulas. Calculators are only allowed on the second math section, and not all questions are multiple-choice. With two math sections, math consists of 50% of the overall SAT score.
Is Khan Academy good for SAT Math? ›Is the Khan Academy a Good Way to Study for the SAT? Yes! Khan Academy offers personalized and interactive tools and resources for SAT study and prep. The site gives students a tailored practice plan based on their practice scores or previous scores.
How advanced is SAT Math? ›The SAT is designed to test basic high school math, from courses up to and including Algebra II. Students who wish to demonstrate more advanced skills may consider taking the ACT, which covers trigonometry, or the two SAT Math Subject Tests.
What grade level is the SAT designed for? ›The SAT is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors. The College Board states that the SAT is intended to measure literacy, numeracy and writing skills that are needed for academic success in college.
How much of the SAT is algebra 1? ›About 60% of the math on the SAT is Algebra I and Algebra II. You need to not only understand how to solve an algebraic equation (fluency) but also be able to create an algebraic equation or graph to model and solve a real-world problem (conceptual understanding and application).
What percentile is 760 math sat? ›A 760 is in the 96th percentile on Math but in the 99th percentile on EBRW, and a 700 is in the 91st percentile on Math but in the 93rd percentile on EBRW.
Can I skip maths in SAT? ›
Also SAT exam is of 1600 marks which includes MATHS. So if you skip this subject then you will get the minimum marks which is 200 in this subject.
Is 600 a good SAT Math score? ›Your SAT score, which ranges from 400 to 1600, is the sum of your two section scores: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW). Each section uses a scale of 200-800 in 10-point increments. A good score on Math or EBRW, then, would be around 600.