answer to a problem is , you will get credit if you grid in or reduce it to . So if you have to grid in a
fraction, and the fraction fits in the grid, don’t bother reducing it. Why give yourself more work (and
another chance to make a careless error)?
Relax
If your answer is a fraction
and it fits in the grid
(fraction bar included),
don’t reduce it. Why
bother? You won’t get an
extra point. However, if
your fraction doesn’t fit,
reduce it or turn it into a
decimal on your calculator,
depending on the section
you’re working on.The only time you might have to reduce a fraction is if it doesn’t fit in the grid. If your answer to a
question is , it won’t fit in the grid. You have two options: Either reduce the fraction to and grid that
in, or use your calculator to convert the fraction to .6. Choose whichever process makes you the most
comfortable when calculator use is allowed, and make sure you know how to reduce fractions for the No
Calculator section.
Mixed Numbers
The scoring machine for the SAT does not recognize mixed numbers. If you try to grid in 2 by writing “2
1/2,” the computer will read this number as . You have to convert mixed numbers to fractions or
decimals before you grid them in. To grid in 2 , either convert it to or its decimal equivalent, which is
2.5. If you have to convert a mixed number to grid it in, be very careful not to change its value
accidentally.
Don’t Mix
Never grid in a mixed
number. Change it into a
top-heavy fraction or its
decimal equivalent.Don’t Worry
The vast majority of Grid-In answers will not be difficult to enter in the grid. The test writers won’t try to
trick you by purposely writing questions that are confusing to grid in. Just pay attention to these guidelines