Math Tips for the GED

Arithmetic, algebra, geometry and problem-solving skills make up the 50-question math portion of the General Education Development, or GED, test. You have 90 minutes to complete the exam, which is split into two parts -- each equally weighted and allowing the same amount of time. Successful students work on their time-management and test-taking skills before taking the exam.
  1. Read Carefully

    • Many errors on the math test come from not understanding what the questions mean. Before you start calculating the answer, focus only on the facts you need for that specific problem, shutting out unnecessary or distracting information. Mark an answer only after reading all the choices.

    Number Sense

    • A solid foundation in addition and multiplication saves you time and prevents many mistakes during the math test. To increase the likelihood of being correct, estimate the answer before you begin your calculations so you'll know your answer makes sense. Your estimate also helps you eliminate obviously wrong choices.

    Tools

    • During the GED test, you can use a pencil, scratch paper and a provided math formulas page for reference. Use your scratch paper to draw helpful images or to work out problems. As of 2011, the American Council on Education, the designer of the GED exam, provides a Casio FX-260 calculator to each test-taker, for use during the math section. Familiarize yourself with this calculator before the test date; you can use it during the first section of the test, but not on the second part.

    Time Management

    • A question left unanswered is always wrong. If you come to a question to which you don't know the answer, eliminate the obviously wrong answer(s) and make your best guess. If you get stuck on one problem, circle it in your test booklet and come back to it. Most importantly, look for test-taking resources in your community or check out math preparation books at the library before taking the GED math test. The PBS LiteracyLink website offers a GED practice test to people who create a free account (See Resources).

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