How to Answer Functions SAT Math Questions

Understanding function questions on the SAT Math exam.

How to Answer Functions SAT Math Questions Now, on to functions. Functions are one of the most intimidating looking problems that can show off on the Math SAT however; these questions are usually more bark than bite. These questions give you a strange-looking symbol along with a formula next to it. Your job is to run some numbers to this formula that come up with an answer. No prior knowledge is necessary. Half the battle on function questions is to not get scared. In this example, Y strange looking symbol Z equals 3Y minus 2Z. We are asked what this equation equals when there is a 5 and a 4 around the strange looking symbol. Your job is replace the Y with the 5 and the Z with the 4 everywhere you see them. Then, just run the numbers through the formula. In this case, we get 3 times 5 minus 3 times 4 which is 15 minus 8 or just 7. These questions are pretty easy once you get used to them. There were usually be a couple of them on each task. If it doesn’t click for you, skip it and move on but pay attention at the question number. If it’s on the first half of the section, it’s probably much easier than it seems.