The Kaplan Method for PSAT Math<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nUse the Kaplan Method for Math for every math question on the PSAT. Its steps are applicable to every situation and reflect the best test-taking practices.
\nThe Kaplan Method for Math has three steps:<\/p>\nStep 1: Read the question, identifying and organizing important information as you go<\/p>\n
Step 2: Choose the best strategy to answer the question<\/p>\n
Step 3: Check that you answered the right<\/i> question<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s examine each of these steps in more detail.<\/p>\n
Step #1<\/span><\/h4>\nRead the Question, Identifying and Organizing Important Information<\/h3>\n
This means:<\/p>\n
\n- What information am I given?\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Take a few seconds to jot down the information you are given and try to group similar items together.<\/p>\n
\n- Separate the question from the context.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Word problems may include information that is unnecessary to solve the question. Feel free to discard any unnecessary information.<\/p>\n
\n- How are the answer choices different?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Reading answer choices carefully can help you spot the most efficient way to solve a multiple-choice math question. If the answer choices are decimals, then painstakingly rewriting your final answer as a simplified fraction is a waste of time; you can just use your calculator instead.<\/p>\n
\n- Should I label or draw a diagram?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If the question describes a shape or figure but doesn\u2019t provide one, sketch a diagram so you can see the shape or figure and add notes to it. If a figure is provided, take a few seconds to label it with information from the question.<\/p>\n\t
\t\tExpert Tip<\/span><\/p>\nDon\u2019t assume you understand a question as soon as you see it. Many students see an equation and immediately begin solving. Solving math questions without carefully reading can take you down the wrong path on Test Day.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
Step #2<\/span><\/h4>\nChoose the Best Strategy to Answer the Question<\/h3>\n\n- Look for patterns.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Every PSAT math question can be solved in a variety of ways, but not all strategies are created equally.\u00a0To finish all of the questions, you\u2019ll need to solve questions as efficiently<\/i> as possible. If you find yourself about to do time-consuming math, take a moment to look for time-saving shortcuts.<\/p>\n\n- Pick numbers or use straightforward math.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
While you can always solve a PSAT math question with what you\u2019ve learned in school, doing so won\u2019t always be the fastest way. On questions that describe relationships between numbers (such as percentages) but don\u2019t actually use numbers, you can often save time on Test Day by using techniques such as\u00a0Picking Numbers instead of straightforward math.<\/p>\n\t
\t\tExpert Tip<\/span><\/p>\nThe PSAT won\u2019t give you any extra points for solving a question the hard way.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
Step #3<\/span><\/h4>\nCheck That You Answered the Right Question<\/h3>\n
When you get the final answer, resist the urge to immediately select in the answer. Take a moment to:<\/p>\n
\n- Review the question stem<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Check units of measurement<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Double-check your work<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The PSAT will often ask you for quantities such as\u00a0x<\/em> + 1 or the product of x<\/i> and y.<\/i> Be careful on these questions! They often include tempting answer choices that correspond to the values of x<\/i> or y<\/i> individually. There\u2019s no partial credit on the PSAT, so take a moment at the end of every question to make sure you\u2019re answering the right question.<\/p>\nLinear Equations on the PSAT<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nLinear equations and linear graphs are some of the most common elements on the PSAT Math Test. They can be used to model relationships and changes such as\u00a0those concerning time, temperature, or population.<\/p>\nThe graphs of these equations are as important as the equations themselves. The graphs you will see most are either linear or lines of best fit.<\/p>\n
A sample graph is shown:<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/www.kaptest.com\/blog\/prep\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2016\/08\/psat_c02_cb_01-296x300.png\")
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nWhen working with a graph like this, you may not know anything about magnetization or cobalt ferrite, but you do see a graph with a straight line on it. That straight line is your clue that you\u2019re dealing with a linear equation.<\/p>\nBeing able to work with, understand, and interpret linear equations will make up a substantial part of your Math score. With practice, you\u2019ll be ready to tackle linear equations in whatever form you encounter them on the test.
\n
PSAT Math Practice Question: Linear Equations<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nMany students inadvertently switch on \u201cmath autopilot\u201d when solving linear equations, automatically running through the same set of steps on every equation without looking for the best way to solve the question.<\/p>\nOn the PSAT, however, every second counts. You will want to use the most<\/i> efficient strategy for solving questions. To see this in action, take a look at the following example:<\/p>\n\t
\nUse the Kaplan Method for Math for every math question on the PSAT. Its steps are applicable to every situation and reflect the best test-taking practices.
\nThe Kaplan Method for Math has three steps:<\/p>\n
Step 1: Read the question, identifying and organizing important information as you go<\/p>\n
Step 2: Choose the best strategy to answer the question<\/p>\n
Step 3: Check that you answered the right<\/i> question<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s examine each of these steps in more detail.<\/p>\n
Step #1<\/span><\/h4>\nRead the Question, Identifying and Organizing Important Information<\/h3>\n
This means:<\/p>\n
\n- What information am I given?\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Take a few seconds to jot down the information you are given and try to group similar items together.<\/p>\n
\n- Separate the question from the context.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Word problems may include information that is unnecessary to solve the question. Feel free to discard any unnecessary information.<\/p>\n
\n- How are the answer choices different?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Reading answer choices carefully can help you spot the most efficient way to solve a multiple-choice math question. If the answer choices are decimals, then painstakingly rewriting your final answer as a simplified fraction is a waste of time; you can just use your calculator instead.<\/p>\n
\n- Should I label or draw a diagram?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If the question describes a shape or figure but doesn\u2019t provide one, sketch a diagram so you can see the shape or figure and add notes to it. If a figure is provided, take a few seconds to label it with information from the question.<\/p>\n\t
\t\tExpert Tip<\/span><\/p>\nDon\u2019t assume you understand a question as soon as you see it. Many students see an equation and immediately begin solving. Solving math questions without carefully reading can take you down the wrong path on Test Day.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
Step #2<\/span><\/h4>\nChoose the Best Strategy to Answer the Question<\/h3>\n\n- Look for patterns.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Every PSAT math question can be solved in a variety of ways, but not all strategies are created equally.\u00a0To finish all of the questions, you\u2019ll need to solve questions as efficiently<\/i> as possible. If you find yourself about to do time-consuming math, take a moment to look for time-saving shortcuts.<\/p>\n\n- Pick numbers or use straightforward math.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
While you can always solve a PSAT math question with what you\u2019ve learned in school, doing so won\u2019t always be the fastest way. On questions that describe relationships between numbers (such as percentages) but don\u2019t actually use numbers, you can often save time on Test Day by using techniques such as\u00a0Picking Numbers instead of straightforward math.<\/p>\n\t
\t\tExpert Tip<\/span><\/p>\nThe PSAT won\u2019t give you any extra points for solving a question the hard way.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
Step #3<\/span><\/h4>\nCheck That You Answered the Right Question<\/h3>\n
When you get the final answer, resist the urge to immediately select in the answer. Take a moment to:<\/p>\n
\n- Review the question stem<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Check units of measurement<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Double-check your work<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The PSAT will often ask you for quantities such as\u00a0x<\/em> + 1 or the product of x<\/i> and y.<\/i> Be careful on these questions! They often include tempting answer choices that correspond to the values of x<\/i> or y<\/i> individually. There\u2019s no partial credit on the PSAT, so take a moment at the end of every question to make sure you\u2019re answering the right question.<\/p>\nLinear Equations on the PSAT<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nLinear equations and linear graphs are some of the most common elements on the PSAT Math Test. They can be used to model relationships and changes such as\u00a0those concerning time, temperature, or population.<\/p>\nThe graphs of these equations are as important as the equations themselves. The graphs you will see most are either linear or lines of best fit.<\/p>\n
A sample graph is shown:<\/p>\n
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nWhen working with a graph like this, you may not know anything about magnetization or cobalt ferrite, but you do see a graph with a straight line on it. That straight line is your clue that you\u2019re dealing with a linear equation.<\/p>\nBeing able to work with, understand, and interpret linear equations will make up a substantial part of your Math score. With practice, you\u2019ll be ready to tackle linear equations in whatever form you encounter them on the test.
\n
PSAT Math Practice Question: Linear Equations<\/h3><\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nMany students inadvertently switch on \u201cmath autopilot\u201d when solving linear equations, automatically running through the same set of steps on every equation without looking for the best way to solve the question.<\/p>\nOn the PSAT, however, every second counts. You will want to use the most<\/i> efficient strategy for solving questions. To see this in action, take a look at the following example:<\/p>\n\t
Take a few seconds to jot down the information you are given and try to group similar items together.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Separate the question from the context.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Word problems may include information that is unnecessary to solve the question. Feel free to discard any unnecessary information.<\/p>\n
- \n
- How are the answer choices different?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Reading answer choices carefully can help you spot the most efficient way to solve a multiple-choice math question. If the answer choices are decimals, then painstakingly rewriting your final answer as a simplified fraction is a waste of time; you can just use your calculator instead.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Should I label or draw a diagram?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
If the question describes a shape or figure but doesn\u2019t provide one, sketch a diagram so you can see the shape or figure and add notes to it. If a figure is provided, take a few seconds to label it with information from the question.<\/p>\n\t
\t\tExpert Tip<\/span><\/p>\n
Don\u2019t assume you understand a question as soon as you see it. Many students see an equation and immediately begin solving. Solving math questions without carefully reading can take you down the wrong path on Test Day.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
Step #2<\/span><\/h4>\n
Choose the Best Strategy to Answer the Question<\/h3>\n
- \n
- Look for patterns.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Every PSAT math question can be solved in a variety of ways, but not all strategies are created equally.\u00a0To finish all of the questions, you\u2019ll need to solve questions as efficiently<\/i> as possible. If you find yourself about to do time-consuming math, take a moment to look for time-saving shortcuts.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Pick numbers or use straightforward math.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
While you can always solve a PSAT math question with what you\u2019ve learned in school, doing so won\u2019t always be the fastest way. On questions that describe relationships between numbers (such as percentages) but don\u2019t actually use numbers, you can often save time on Test Day by using techniques such as\u00a0Picking Numbers instead of straightforward math.<\/p>\n\t
\t\tExpert Tip<\/span><\/p>\n
The PSAT won\u2019t give you any extra points for solving a question the hard way.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
Step #3<\/span><\/h4>\n
Check That You Answered the Right Question<\/h3>\n
When you get the final answer, resist the urge to immediately select in the answer. Take a moment to:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Review the question stem<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Check units of measurement<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Double-check your work<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The PSAT will often ask you for quantities such as\u00a0x<\/em> + 1 or the product of x<\/i> and y.<\/i> Be careful on these questions! They often include tempting answer choices that correspond to the values of x<\/i> or y<\/i> individually. There\u2019s no partial credit on the PSAT, so take a moment at the end of every question to make sure you\u2019re answering the right question.<\/p>\n
Linear Equations on the PSAT<\/h3>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nLinear equations and linear graphs are some of the most common elements on the PSAT Math Test. They can be used to model relationships and changes such as\u00a0those concerning time, temperature, or population.<\/p>\nThe graphs of these equations are as important as the equations themselves. The graphs you will see most are either linear or lines of best fit.<\/p>\n
A sample graph is shown:<\/p>\n
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nWhen working with a graph like this, you may not know anything about magnetization or cobalt ferrite, but you do see a graph with a straight line on it. That straight line is your clue that you\u2019re dealing with a linear equation.<\/p>\nBeing able to work with, understand, and interpret linear equations will make up a substantial part of your Math score. With practice, you\u2019ll be ready to tackle linear equations in whatever form you encounter them on the test.
\nPSAT Math Practice Question: Linear Equations<\/h3>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>
\nMany students inadvertently switch on \u201cmath autopilot\u201d when solving linear equations, automatically running through the same set of steps on every equation without looking for the best way to solve the question.<\/p>\nOn the PSAT, however, every second counts. You will want to use the most<\/i> efficient strategy for solving questions. To see this in action, take a look at the following example:<\/p>\n\t
- Check units of measurement<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Review the question stem<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Pick numbers or use straightforward math.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Look for patterns.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Should I label or draw a diagram?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- How are the answer choices different?<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n