SAT Math Domain
SAT Problem-Solving & Data Analysis
This domain evaluates quantitative reasoning using real-world data, including ratios, rates, proportional relationships, percentages, two-way frequency tables, and statistical summaries.
What the SAT Tests in Problem-Solving & Data Analysis
Ratios, rates, unit analysis, and multi-step proportional conversions
Percentages, percent increase/decrease, and successive percentages
Two-way tables, relative frequencies, and conditional probability
Scatterplots, lines of best fit, margin of error, and confidence intervals
Formulas & Shortcuts
High-Yield Formulas & Desmos Rules
Percent Change\text{Percent Change} = \frac{\text{New} - \text{Old}}{\text{Old}} \times 100\%
Always divide by the original baseline value.
Conditional ProbabilityP(A|B) = \frac{\text{Count}(A \text{ and } B)}{\text{Total in Row/Column } B}
Restrict the denominator to the given subgroup.
Common Student Traps
- •Dividing by the new value instead of the original value when calculating percent change.
- •Using the grand total instead of the row/column subtotal for conditional probability in two-way tables.
Proven Study Strategies
- •Carefully verify what the denominator is in table probability questions.
- •Write down unit cancellation chains for complex multi-step conversions.
Example Questions & Solutions
Step-by-step walkthroughsExample Question #1medium Difficulty
A chemist prepares a solution by mixing 40 mL of a 15% acid solution with 60 mL of a 35% acid solution. What is the concentration of acid in the resulting mixture?
A.23%
B.25%
C.27%
D.29%
Solution (Option C):
Total pure acid = (0.15 * 40) + (0.35 * 60) = 6 + 21 = 27 mL. Total volume = 40 + 60 = 100 mL. Concentration = 27 / 100 = 27%.
Practice Questions in this Skill
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are in Problem-Solving and Data Analysis?
Around 5 to 7 questions appear across the two Math modules (approx 15%).