PSAT Math

A comprehensive guide to mastering the math concepts tested on the PSAT, including real-world applications and testing strategies.

Numbers and OperationsAlgebraic Expressions and EquationsRatios, Proportions, and Percents
Linear and Quadratic FunctionsSystems of Equations and InequalitiesData Analysis and Probability
Budgeting and Personal FinanceUnit Conversions and MeasurementAnalyzing Real-World Graphs and Surveys
Smart Guessing and EliminationTime Management and Pacing
Numbers and Operatio...Algebraic Expression...Ratios, Proportions,...Linear and Quadratic...Systems of Equations...Data Analysis and Pr...Budgeting and Person...Unit Conversions and...Analyzing Real-World...Smart Guessing and E...Time Management and ...
Advanced Topics

Data Analysis and Probability

Working with Data

Data analysis on the PSAT means interpreting charts, graphs, and tables. You'll need to find averages (means), medians, and sometimes modes.

  • Mean is the average.
  • Median is the middle value when numbers are ordered.
  • Mode is the most common value.

Probability

Probability measures the likelihood of something happening, from 0 (impossible) to 1 (certain).

Real-World Use

Data analysis helps you understand trends in sports, weather, and polls. Probability is used for predicting outcomes, like the chance of winning a game or getting heads in a coin flip.

Calculating Probability

Probability is \( \frac{\text{Number of desired outcomes}}{\text{Total possible outcomes}} \).

Key Formula

\[P(A) = \frac{\text{Number of favorable outcomes}}{\text{Total possible outcomes}}\]

Examples

  • If 2 out of 5 students like soccer, the probability a random student prefers soccer is \( \frac{2}{5} \).

  • The mean of 4, 7, and 9 is \( \frac{4 + 7 + 9}{3} = 6.67 \).

In a Nutshell

Data analysis and probability let you make sense of information and predict future events.

Key Terms

Mean
The average of a set of numbers.
Probability
A measure of how likely an event is to occur.
Median
The number in the middle of a sorted list.
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Budgeting and Personal Finance