High school students should review geometry concepts and basic shapes to successfully answer SAT math questions.
The math section on the redesigned SAT includes a number of questions that require you to know geometry concepts. To earn a great score on the SAT, you will need to master these concepts and learn how to apply them in context.

The basic geometry elements include lines and angles – that is, lengths and midpoints, vertical angles, and parallel and perpendicular lines – triangles and other polygons, circles and solids, such as understanding how to calculate and recognize surface area and the volume of objects.

Here are four ways to master geometry concepts for the SAT math section.

• Begin with the basics: One key to mastering the SAT math section is to use what the test creators give you. For geometry, this means familiarizing yourself with the applicable equations. You may not use them all on any given exam, but you should know they exist.

Open an official practice test and locate the reference section at the beginning of the math portion. This resource includes diagrams of common shapes, including shorthand notation of their relevant features.  Ensure you understand what these notes mean. Explain them to someone, like a friend or a parent. If you can clearly explain the content, you likely comprehend it.

Also ensure you understand the conventions of SAT figures. No matter how a diagram appears, you cannot assume anything about the size of an angle unless a measurement is shown.

An angle may look like a right angle, but if it does not have the square box at the intersection, you cannot assume it is. However, even when a figure is labeled “not drawn to scale,” certain items will still be true – for instance, the sum of the interior angles or the degrees in a circle.

Finally, write a list of the elements in the reference section, and work on memorizing that list. When it comes time to take the actual exam, it is essential that you know which elements will be available for your recollection.

• Remember simple shapes: The College Board offers a comprehensive SAT study guide. Chapter 19, "Additional Topics in Math," includes a list of more than two dozen geometry-related topics.

If math is not your strongest suit, this list may seem daunting. Instead of worrying about learning all the concepts immediately, realize that several basic topics will cover many of the geometry questions you are likely to encounter on the SAT.

Triangles are one of the best places to start. The Pythagorean theorem is your friend. You may scoff, but some seemingly difficult problems are simply the Pythagorean theorem in disguise.

Circles also appear frequently. Memorize the formulas for area and circumference, as well as the number of degrees in a circle – 360. You may find that certain questions rely on your ability to draw relationships between triangles, with angles measured in degrees, and portions of circles, also measured in degrees.

• Practice speedy responses: Complete entire practice sections or tests in a single sitting. This approach is important for building stamina and for getting yourself used to exam-day stress.

For math in particular, however, there is value in doing time trials with sets of five to 10 questions. SAT math involves identifying the type of question, applying the right formula and selecting an answer quickly. With smaller sets, you will be able to learn from each trial to improve on the next.

Many students find that they are blocked from a top score because they linger over one or two tough questions. If you can complete the easy ones quickly, you will have time to spare for puzzling out the tough ones.

Make sure, too, that you are familiar with grid-in questions. They are not insignificant, and the format may be unfamiliar to you.

• Watch for intersections: The redesigned SAT includes questions that draw on multiple disciplines. As mentioned above, you may find triangles intersecting with other shapes.

Another major intersection is the use of common geometry problems applied to coordinate planes. The grid system of a coordinate plane, with lines intersecting at right angles, is an excellent location for using your special triangle rules. If you do not have the time to practice all problem types more than once or twice, prioritize problems with multiple identifiable shapes.

Learn the basic, work fast and focus on possible intersections and you will likely have the geometry section squared away in no time.