Because 45 of its 58 Math
questions are multiple-choice,
you can afford to
approximate numbers like
π, , and (3+, 1.4,
and 1.7+, respectively).For example, on many SAT geometry problems, you will be presented with a drawing in which some
information is given and you will be asked to find some of the information that is missing. In most such
problems, you’re expected to apply some formula or perform some calculation, often an algebraic one.
But you’ll almost always be better off if you look at the drawing and make a rough estimate of the answer
(based on the given information) before you try to work it out.
The basic principles you just learned (such as the number of degrees in a triangle and the fact that π ≈ 3)
will be enormously helpful to you in Ballparking on the SAT. You should also know the approximate
values of several common square roots. Be sure to memorize them before moving on. Knowing them cold
will help you solve problems and save time, especially when calculator use is not allowed.
Square Roots= 1
≈ 1.4
≈ 1.7+
= 2
Happy Holidays!
February 14 (2/14) is
Valentine’s Day, so
= 1.4.
March 17 (3/17) is
St. Patrick’s Day, so
= 1.7.You will also find it very helpful if you have a good sense of how large certain common angles are. Study
the following examples.