Tutor Talk: Why Is the SAT Math Section So Bloody Difficult?
SAT Math got you sweating? You’re not alone. This section has earned its reputation as one of the toughest parts of the test. In this edition of Tutor Talk, Director of Tutoring Dickson Benesh breaks down why the SAT Math section feels “so bloody difficult” and how focused practice (and the right strategies) can help you turn frustration into confidence.
The SAT Math section has a reputation for being very challenging. Students often describe it as anxiety-inducing, excruciatingly painful, and downright mind-boggling. Of course, not every problem is seemingly impossible, but enough of them are tricky enough to raise stress levels, especially since success on those are the problems that determine whether students reach their target score.
Most students have a solid foundation in math skills (which is essential), but the SAT doesn’t always test those skills directly.
The Good News: With intentional practice, the SAT Math section can be conquered!
The difficulty of the SAT Math section can be boiled down to a few key issues, each of which I’ll explore in greater depth:
Complex phrasing of problems
Conceptual depth (not just plug and chug)
A mix of skills: algebra, geometry, data analysis, and more
Time pressure on the much more difficult Module 2
Complex Phrasing of Problems
Tricky, tricky, tricky. SAT Math questions are often worded in confusing ways that hide the core math concepts within lengthy, unfamiliar phrasing. Problems are usually presented very differently than they are in math class and often require unfamiliar steps—usually algebraic procedures—to solve. The main challenge isn’t always the math itself but figuring out what the problem is actually asking.
The Good News: There’s often more than one way to solve these problems, sometimes even using Desmos! With sustained, deliberate practice, students can master the key techniques needed to tackle challenging SAT Math problems. Remember: it’s all the rehearsing that gets you ready for the performance.
Conceptual Depth (Not Just Plug and Chug)
In many math classes, success often means mimicking recently taught techniques - I should know since my Algebra II class is often like that. But on the SAT, success requires genuine conceptual understanding. It’s about understanding why methods work and applying them in new contexts. Students are often asked to interpret solutions, such as recognizing that a slope represents a rate of change.
The Good News: There are only a finite number of problem types on the SAT Math section. Once you start recognizing the common ones, you can develop a blueprint for solving them. For instance, many questions are actually disguised systems of equations problems - once you recognize that, you can apply familiar strategies to solve them.
A Mix of Skills: Algebra, Geometry, Data Analysis, and More
It can feel like the SAT throws all the math topics into a blender. There seems to be no rhyme or reason to the order; an algebra question might be followed by geometry, then a random data analysis problem. These abrupt shifts can be jarring! It’s mentally exhausting to keep switching gears, requiring a level of flexibility not often demanded in the classroom.
The Good News: It is possible to master the diverse set of skills the SAT tests. With steady effort and exposure, students can build the knowledge and confidence needed to handle whatever the test throws at them. By investing in a wide-ranging skill set, students can turn obstacles into opportunities.
Time Pressure on the Much More Difficult Math Module 2
Most students complete Math Module 1 without too much time pressure. This is the routing module: it determines whether you move on to the more advanced Math Module 2. If you answer more than half of the first module correctly (which is very common!), you’ll be routed to the uber-challenging Module 2.
Unfortunately, the 35 minutes allotted for each module isn’t enough time for most students to complete Module 2 comfortably. Many find themselves scrambling at the end, especially since the hardest questions are clustered near the finish. To succeed, you must solve problems both correctly and efficiently (a tall order under pressure)!
The Good News: Practicing key test-taking strategies can dramatically improve efficiency. With increased familiarity and exposure to difficult problem types, students build the confidence to execute strategically under pressure.
Final Thoughts
Yes, it sounds daunting… but there is a clear path to success. Mastering the SAT Math section means learning to:
Execute proven problem-solving techniques
Recognize common problem types
Build a strong, well-rounded skill set
Become a more efficient, confident test taker
All of this comes with sustained, focused practice (and maybe a little tutoring!). With time and effort, students can level up and crush the SAT.
You got this!
Tutoring & Test Prep
Want more personalized advice from our team? As part of our full-service approach to college advising, College Solutions offers tutoring and SAT/ACT prep as an add-on to our counseling packages for 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. In collaboration with our knowledgeable counselors, our expert tutors create personalized learning plans for math, English, and/or standardized testing prep that align with students’ goals for college admissions and beyond.