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What Kind of Math Is on the GED?

February 19, 2020

It’s easy to feel intimidated by math. Many people are, because it’s sort of like a foreign language. But with practice and great resources, anyone can understand it and master it. 

Studying for a test is much easier when you know what will be on it, especially when you can break it down into understandable parts. You can then study each part separately.

The math section will challenge your skills in basic math, geometry, algebra, and graphs and functions. Once you study each of these areas long enough, you’ll be confident that you can pass.

General Tips: GED Math Section

Tip #1:

You don’t have to memorize formulas before the math test. You’ll need some experience using them, but will be given a formula sheet during the test. 

Tip #2:

You should also practice general math questions along with common measurements and real-life applications. 

Tip #3:

The exam questions will come in several types: multiple choice, drag-and-drop, drop-down, fill-in-the-blank, and others. That means the listed answers could give you some clues, but they could also mislead you. Make sure you can solve the problems on your own, but if you are struggling, you can use the process of elimination to narrow down the answer.

Tip #4:

You’ll only need to use a calculator in section two of the test. That means you’ll need to understand math ideas well, not just know how to use a calculator.

 

What Are the Major Types of Math to Study? 

Here’s the breakdown of the 4 major areas of math you’ll need to study for: 

1. Basic Math

Know how to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using a calculator. Make sure to practice with fractions, decimals, percentages, roots, and exponents too. Very important: you need to know how to perform math operations based on word problems.

2. Geometry

Understand how to use formulas relating to shapes and objects. You may have to look at a drawing of a shape and use a provided formula to calculate its surface area, volume, radius, diameter, and so on.

3. Algebra

Be able to determine the value of a variable in an equation. Also, you should understand how to write a formula with a variable in it based on a word problem.

4. Graphs and Functions

Know how to read and analyze information in graphs and charts. Understand the common ways that data is organized, including how to put it into tables. Understand the concepts of median, mean, mode, range, probability, and statistics. 

How to Study to Pass Your GED

Now that you know what kind of math is on the GED test, you can focus on studying and mastering each type.

Study the available materials on major math concepts. It’s also vital to take sample exams. It is important to experience what it’s like to take a test without a book or answer key. And you should allow practice tests to show you what your stronger and weaker areas before you take the actual test so you can brush up where you need to.

Maybe you realize you’re not as prepared in algebra, for example. Then study its concepts, and practice its test questions until you’re great at them. Keep at it until you’re confident in every subject.

Get Prepared

To get proven help studying for math questions, sign up for a free GED account online. Use our math study guides and practice tests to be confident that you can pass the math section of the GED!

 

 

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