SAT Subject Test in Math I

The SAT Subject Test in Math I assesses students' understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and skills.

Numbers and OperationsAlgebraic Expressions and EquationsGeometry: Shapes and Measurement
Functions and GraphsData Analysis and ProbabilityCoordinate Geometry
Personal Finance and BudgetingCooking and MeasurementsTravel and Navigation
Time Management and PacingSmart Guessing and Elimination
Numbers and Operatio...Algebraic Expression...Geometry: Shapes and...Functions and GraphsData Analysis and Pr...Coordinate GeometryPersonal Finance and...Cooking and Measurem...Travel and Navigatio...Time Management and ...Smart Guessing and E...
Basic Concepts

Numbers and Operations

Building Blocks of Mathematics

Numbers and operations form the heart of all math. Understanding how to work with different types of numbers—such as integers, fractions, decimals, and real numbers—is essential.

Types of Numbers

  • Integers: Whole numbers and their negatives (\(-3, 0, 5\))
  • Rational numbers: Numbers that can be written as a fraction (\(\frac{1}{2}, 0.75\))
  • Irrational numbers: Numbers that cannot be written as a simple fraction (\(\pi, \sqrt{2}\))

Operations

Four basic operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—are applied to all these types. Mastering order of operations (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) ensures correct results.

Real-World Relevance

Knowing how to quickly add, subtract, multiply, or divide is crucial for handling money, measuring quantities, and comparing information.

Common Mistakes

  • Ignoring order of operations
  • Confusing negative signs
  • Misplacing decimals in calculations

Examples

  • Calculating the total cost of groceries by adding prices like $4.99, $2.50, and $1.25.

  • Splitting a restaurant bill evenly among friends using division.

In a Nutshell

Mastering different types of numbers and their operations is essential for all higher-level math.

Key Terms

Rational Number
A number that can be expressed as a fraction or ratio of two integers.
Order of Operations
A set of rules for the sequence in which operations are carried out in a mathematical expression.
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Algebraic Expressions and Equations