Have you excelled in three years of your high school math classes? Are you thinking of majoring in a math or science subject? If you answered yes to one (or both) of these questions, you may want to consider taking the Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test.
Taking trigonometry or pre-calculus, or both, is necessary for this exam. Knowing how to use a scientific or graphing calculator is also helpful. Things to know about the Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test include understanding the topics covered, the calculator policies, and techniques to prepare.
Keep reading to learn more about what to know about the Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test:
Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test Basics
This exam is offered in August, October, November, December, May, and June, so plan accordingly. The highest score you can earn is an 800, while the lowest is a 200. In 60 minutes, you will be asked to complete 50 multiple-choice questions. The test includes some reference information, such as volume formulas for a right circular cone, sphere, and pyramid, as well as the surface area of a sphere.
There is some content overlap between the Level 1 and Level 2 exams. However, doing well on the Level 1 test doesn’t automatically mean that you will do well on the Level 2 exam. If you’re confused about which test you should be taking, consult your math teacher or your guidance counselor.
[RELATED: What to Know About the Mathematics Level 1 SAT Subject Test]
Topics on the Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test
Algebra and functions account for 48-52% of the exam.
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This includes expressions, equations, inequalities, representation and modeling, and properties of functions. Review your linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, periodic, piecewise, recursive, and parametric functions.
Geometry and measurement make up 28-32% of the test.
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This includes three subtopics. The first is coordinate geometry, which covers lines, parabolas, circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, symmetry, transformations, and polar coordinates. The second is three-dimensional geometry, which includes solids, surface area, volume, and coordinates in three dimensions. The third is trigonometry, which covers right triangles, identities, radian measure, law of sines, law of cosines, equations, and double angle formulas.
Numbers and operations account for 10-14% of the exam.
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This includes operations, ratio, proportion, complex numbers, counting, elementary number theory, matrices, sequences, series, and vectors.
Data analysis, statistics, and probability make up 8-12% of the test.
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This includes mean, median, mode, range, interquartile range, standard deviation, graphs and plots, least-squares regression (linear, quadratic, and exponential), and probability.
Calculator use on the Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test
Calculators are allowed on this exam, so practice with one while studying. Try to be as efficient as possible with your calculator; in other words, don’t type in every single operation—it won’t help you timing-wise.
Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test Prep Tips
A great starting point in preparing for this exam is your class notes and past tests. Review these materials to refresh your memory and to determine what concepts you need to revisit. You can also see if any other students in your class are taking the exam. Study groups are always a great way to prepare if you can stay focused in one. In addition, take practice tests before your exam date. The testing hour will fly by, so it’s important to know how to pace yourself.
[RELATED: How to Succeed on SAT Subject Tests]
With some preparation, the Mathematics Level 2 SAT Subject Test can be a smooth experience. Remember, the material is based on the average classwork in an American high school. Classes do vary, but you can still earn a top score without getting all of the questions correct.
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