PSAT and SAT Math sections can feel intimidating for most students, but with the right strategies, students can solve problems more efficiently and accurately. Below are two proven test-prep strategies your child can use when tackling tricky multiple-choice math questions. Because these tests contain adaptive modules based on student performance in module #1, it's imperative to get the most questions right to have the potential of scoring above a 600 in Math.
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🎙️Listen to this conversation on All About Digital SAT Math on the Tests and the Rest podcast.
🎯 Strategy 1: “Use the Answer Choices”
Sometimes, the quickest path to a solution is to work backwards using the choices provided.
✅ When to Use It:
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The question asks “How many…?” or “What is…?”
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Word problems where all answer choices are numbers.
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When writing an algebraic equation feels complicated.
✅ How It Works:
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Label the answer choices by what the problem is asking for.
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Start with Answer Choice B or C (a "middle" value).
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Plug it back into the problem.
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If it’s too big, eliminate higher answers.
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If it’s too small, eliminate lower answers.
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Continue until you find the correct choice that meets all the criteria of the question.
✨ Strategy 2: “Pick a Number”
This strategy helps when variables or abstract wording make the problem unclear.
✅ When to Use It:
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The question uses the words “in terms of”.
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Answer choices contain variables.
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You don’t know the original numbers.
✅ How It Works:
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Pick numbers that are easy to work with (not 0, 1, or any number in the choices).
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Solve the problem using your chosen numbers to find a target answer.
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Plug your numbers into the choices to see which one matches your target.
🧮 Why These Strategies Help
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Reduce time spent on algebraic setups
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Eliminate wrong answers quickly
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Validating that the answer works
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Build confidence by making tough problems more approachable
Encourage your student to practice these methods during test prep so they become second nature on test day.
🗓 Upcoming Test Dates
PSAT 2025: Mid-October (check with your school, as dates vary)
SAT 2025: September 13, October 4, November 8, December 6
SAT 2026: March 14, May 2, June 6
👉 Students register for the SAT at collegeboard.com.
✅ Takeaways
Encourage your student to practice smart test-taking strategies, not just math content. Knowing how to use the answers and pick numbers can make the difference between frustration and success on the PSAT and SAT.