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| SAT Problems: Unusual Symbols |
| SATpreparation.net |
| Since an unusual symbol is always defined in the problem, read the problem two or three times to find the definition. Try this example: For all integers, let x be defined as the integer squared and let y be defined as the integer cubed. (A) x is always positive (B) y is always negative (C) x + y is always positive (D) x + y is always negative (E) none of the above Solve: If x is 1, 2, 3, or -1, -2, -3, it is positive, but since zero is an integer, x could be zero. If y is 1, 2, 3, it is positive; if y is -1, -2, -3 it is negative; but since zero is an integer, y could be zero. Answer: Since zero is an integer, either x or y could be zero. The answer is (E) none of the above SAT TIP: Think of positive values, negative values, and zero. Practice with these examples: An easy problem for scores from 200 to 400 A moderate problem for scores from 400 to 600 A difficult problem for scores from 600 to 800 For more practice: Click here for problems in The Official SAT Study Guide. Click here to return to Web Book Access |
| Since the SAT tests only arithmetic, basic algebra and basic geometry, knowledge of the format of the questions is often the key to success. |
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| SAT TIP: Unusual symbols are defined in the problems. |
| Questions? Write the SATtutor@SATpreparation.net |
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