Math · 03 · Getting Started
Essential Strategy
Notes
Key points
- Backsolve: numeric choices? Plug them into the question; start with a middle value.
- Pick numbers for variables ( or 3), avoiding 0 and 1.
- Estimate first: cross out choices with the wrong sign or size.
- Mark and move: stuck after about a minute? Guess, flag it, come back.
- Re-read the last line: is it asking for x, 2x, a total, a percent?
- Use the answer eliminator; draw the figure or sketch the graph if none is given.
Common traps
- Solving for perfectly, then answering when the question asked for .
- Picked numbers that make two choices match — test again with a new value.
- Leaving a question blank. A guess costs nothing.
SAT tip
Choices are numbers → backsolve. Choices are expressions → pick numbers. Desmos confirms either.
Test yourself
10 official SAT questions on Essential Strategy, easiest first.