SAT Math

Master the essential math concepts and problem-solving skills needed to excel on the SAT.

Advanced Topics

Systems of Equations

What Are Systems of Equations?

Systems involve two or more equations working together. The solution is where all equations are true at the same time.

Solving Methods

  • Substitution: Replace one variable with an expression from the other equation.
  • Elimination: Add or subtract equations to eliminate a variable.
  • Graphing: Find the point where the lines cross.

Applications

  • Figuring out prices when you know totals and quantities.
  • Finding where two moving objects meet.

SAT Tips

  • Label your variables.
  • Watch for clues in the question about which method to use.

Real-World Example

Balancing your spending (money in vs. money out) or mixing two recipes to get a certain flavor.

Examples

  • Solving \( x + y = 10 \) and \( x - y = 2 \) gives \( x = 6, y = 4 \).

  • If a movie ticket and popcorn cost $17, and two tickets plus popcorn cost $28, you can solve for the individual prices.

In a Nutshell

Systems help solve problems with more than one unknown, like prices or crossing paths.