When preparing for the test, it's a good idea to become familiar with the types of questions that will be asked and the format in which they'll be presented. There are 17 questions in the Arithmetic category, 12 in Elementary Algebra, and 20 in College-Level Mathematics. The best way to prepare for the test is to study the categories individually at first; devote extra time to the areas that you have the most trouble in. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that you will not be allowed to have any books, notes or graphing calculators to use. However, there is a basic four-function calculator implanted in the test itself for you to use.
This section is intended to evaluate your ability to perform fundamental math operations and solve problems using basic arithmetic methods. The 17 questions are broken down into three different types: operations with whole numbers and fractions; operations with decimals and percents; and applications and problem solving. You'll want to go over the topics within these categories. For operations with whole numbers and fractions, look over your notes on basic adding, subtracting, division, multiplication, estimations, fractions and mixed numbers. For operations with decimals and percents, you'll need to apply basic math functions to decimals, percentages, fractions, percent identifications and equivalencies, along with estimation problems. For applications and problem solving, the questions will involve problems with basic geometry, measurement, percent, rate and fractional distribution.
The 12 questions in this category are also divided into three groups: operations with integers and rational numbers, operations with algebraic expressions, and equation solving, inequalities, and word problems. This section will test your ability to compute absolute values, integers, positive rational roots and exponents, evaluate and simplify various formulas and expressions, and solve verbal problems in the areas of algebra, geometric reasoning and graphing.
These 20 questions are intended to gauge your knowledge within the area of intermediary algebra, all the way to precalculus. The groups in this category include: algebraic operations; solutions of equations and inequalities; coordinate geometry; application and other algebra topics; and functions and trigonometry. The problems involve polynomials, roots and exponents, linear and quadratic equations, complex numbers, series and sequences, determinants, permutations, combinations, fractions, word problems, polynomial, algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric functions, and coordinates and graphs.
Aside from your textbooks and class notes, there are various websites that contain past tests, practice questions and other assessments. A link to some of these sites is provided for you below. Holding a study group or participating in a review course can also be helpful. Prior to taking the online practice tests, it's a good idea to review the individual topics separately. This also allows you to get a handle on the subjects that you may need to spend additional time on. For example, assess your competency/ knowledge of percents, rates and fractional distributions. If you're familiar in these areas and feel comfortable, move on to the next ones. Flashcards can also come in handy.
Remember to get a good night's sleep and have a good meal before the exam. Practice stress-relieving tricks, so you don't get overwhelmed. Keep in mind that test is used for placement purposes only; you're not going to be graded. Furthermore, the Accuplacer Math test is not timed, so carefully look at the questions and take the time you need to answer them. If you get stuck on a question, just try your best. Make sure not to skip it because you will not be able to go back and answer the question once you've moved on to the next one.