Math Rules

For Soha



















The Calculator

It is your friend.
















Learn how to use it to your advantage on the SAT.
For instance, take a look at question 4 on page 151

If d(w)= for all real values of w, which of the following is NOT a
possible value of d(w)?
(A) 0
(B) 1
(C) 4
(D) 4.6
(E) 7.25

Here, one of the answer choices CANNOT be the output, no matter what number you
substitute in for w. Let's pretend you've looked at the question and are confused on
how you'll figure out which answer choice is impossible. Don't worry- your
calculator can help you!
Remember, a function has two values, an input value and an output value.
Whatever number you input goes through the rules of the function and produces a
different value as its output. Here, all we need to figure out is which of the answer
choices will never be an output. Heres how to answer the question using your
calculator
1. Click Y=
2. Next to Y1 type
3. Click Graph and look at the graph
4. On the graph, the X coordinate represents the values you would plug
in for W, and the Y coordinate represents the output of the function,
f(w)



(w
2
+1)
(w
2
+1)

Use Number Properties to Your Advantage

Sometimes, you'll be able to find the correct answer just based on number
properties (aka, without any math)!

A is a number between 0 and -1. B is a number to the left of A on the number
line. The sum of A and B is C. Which of the following will always be greater than C?
(A) 2A
(B) 4B
(C) 1/(AC)
(D) ABC
(E)
Normally, you'd use the Picking Numbers strategy to answer this question.
However, you can answer it even faster by taking a quick look at the answer choices.
When you do so, you'll notice that answer choice C is the only time you'll end up
with a positive number. Ta-da!

It's like magic!











Number Properties

Addition/Subtraction
Even + Even = Even
Odd + Odd = Even
Even + Odd = Odd
B
3

Multiplication/Division
Even x Even = Even
Odd x Odd = Odd
Even x Odd = Even

Positive/Negative
Positive x Positive = Positive
Positive x Negative = Negative
Negative x Negative = Positive

Exponents
If a negative number less than -1 is raised to an even exponent, the result will
be positive
If a negative number less than -1 is raised to an odd exponent, the result will
be negative
If a negative number between 0 and 1 is raised to an even exponent, the
answer will be a positive fraction that is closer to 0
If a negative number between 0 and 1 is raised to an odd exponent, the
answer will be a negative fraction that is closer to 0