SAT & ACT Math Strategy Guide: 15 Must-Know Formulas

High-yield formulas, time management shortcuts, and algebra tactics for standardized exams.

Core Linear & Coordinate Formulas

• Slope: m = (y₂ - y₁) / (x₂ - x₁) • Slope-Intercept Form: y = mx + b • Midpoint Formula: ((x₁ + x₂)/2, (y₁ + y₂)/2) • Distance Formula: d = √((x₂ - x₁)² + (y₂ - y₁)²)

Perpendicular Lines Rule: m₁ · m₂ = -1 (negative reciprocals)

Essential Quadratic & Polynomial Rules

• Vertex Form: y = a(x - h)² + k (Vertex at (h, k)) • Axis of Symmetry: x = -b / (2a) • Sum of Roots: -b / a | Product of Roots: c / a

Difference of Squares: a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b)

Trigonometry & Circle Formulas

• Circle Equation: (x - h)² + (y - k)² = r² • Arc Length: s = rθ (θ in radians) | Sector Area: A = 1/2 r²θ • Complementary Angles: sin(x) = cos(90° - x)

Trig Fundamental Identity: sin²(θ) + cos²(θ) = 1

Exam Pacing and Process of Elimination

Target 45-60 seconds on standard questions to reserve 2 minutes for multi-step data interpretation problems. Test answer choices directly when algebraic solving is cumbersome.

Plug-In Strategy: Use simple test numbers (2, 5, 10) for variable-in-answers questions.

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