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Test-Taking Tactics
Proven strategies and shortcuts to maximize your score on the SSAT Quantitative section.
Time Management
- Spend about 1 minute per question on average
- Skip difficult questions and return to them later
- Mark questions you're unsure about for review
- Save 2-3 minutes at the end to check your work
Answer Elimination
- Cross out obviously wrong answers first
- Look for answers that are too extreme
- Eliminate answers that don't match units or format
- If stuck, make an educated guess from remaining options
Quick Calculation Tips
- Round numbers to estimate answers quickly
- Use mental math shortcuts for common operations
- Check if answer choices are far apart (estimation works)
- Plug in answer choices when solving is difficult
Problem-Solving Strategies
- Draw diagrams for geometry and word problems
- Write down what you know and what you need to find
- Break complex problems into smaller steps
- Check if your answer makes logical sense
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Read questions carefully - watch for 'NOT' or 'EXCEPT'
- Double-check your arithmetic
- Make sure you answered what was asked
- Watch for unit conversions (inches to feet, etc.)
Topic-Specific Tips
- Fractions: Find common denominators before adding/subtracting
- Percentages: Convert to decimals or fractions
- Algebra: Isolate the variable step by step
- Geometry: Memorize key formulas (area, perimeter, volume)
Remember
These tactics are most effective when combined with solid math knowledge. Practice regularly, learn from your mistakes, and stay confident during the test.
The SSAT rewards both accuracy and speed, so finding the right balance is key to achieving your best score.