SHSAT Math Topics That Show Up Most Often (and How to Master Them)
Introduction: Math Is Predictable on the SHSAT
Unlike ELA passages, math on the SHSAT follows patterns. The same core topics show up year after year. Students who master these areas gain the biggest score boosts.
This article highlights the most common SHSAT math topics and gives you strategies to master them.
Topic 1: Fractions, Decimals, and Percents
Simplifying fractions.
Converting between fractions, decimals, and percents.
Solving percent increase/decrease problems.
👉 Strategy: Memorize fraction-to-percent conversions (e.g., 1/5 = 20%).
Topic 2: Ratios and Proportions
Ratio comparisons.
Scale problems (maps, recipes, geometry).
Proportion word problems.
👉 Strategy: Always set ratios in the same order to avoid mismatching.
Topic 3: Algebra Basics
Solving for x in linear equations.
Working with inequalities.
Substituting values into expressions.
👉 Strategy: Write steps cleanly—most errors come from skipped lines.
Topic 4: Geometry
Area and perimeter of rectangles, triangles, and circles.
Properties of angles in triangles and parallel lines.
Pythagorean theorem.
👉 Strategy: Draw a diagram even if one is provided—it reduces careless mistakes.
Topic 5: Word Problems
Rates (distance = rate × time).
Work problems (combined effort).
Probability and basic statistics.
👉 Strategy: Translate words into equations step by step.
Practice Method: The 4-Step Drill
Learn the rule/concept.
Drill 5–10 untimed problems.
Drill timed sets (15–20 minutes).
Mix into full practice tests.
Related: Turn Wrong Answers into Wins: The Review Method That Works
Common Math Mistakes to Avoid
Dropping units (e.g., mixing feet with inches).
Forgetting to simplify fractions.
Misreading what the problem is asking (area vs. perimeter).
Spending too long on one hard problem.
Case Study: Focusing on High-Yield Topics
Student A: Spread study time evenly across all math. Little improvement.
Student B: Focused on fractions, algebra, and geometry (most common). Score rose by 60 points.
The difference wasn’t effort—it was prioritization.
FAQ: SHSAT Math
Q1: Is geometry or algebra more important?
Both matter, but algebra and fractions appear more frequently.
Q2: Do calculators help?
Not allowed. Students must practice mental math and scratch work.
Q3: Should students memorize formulas?
Yes—especially area, perimeter, and Pythagorean theorem.
External Resources
NYC DOE SHSAT Practice Problems
Student Checklist
✅ Master fractions, decimals, percents.
✅ Drill ratios and proportions.
✅ Get fluent with algebra basics.
✅ Practice geometry formulas.
✅ Translate word problems into equations.
Conclusion: Target the Math That Matters Most
Students don’t need to know everything to succeed—they need to know the most common math topics cold. By focusing on fractions, algebra, geometry, and word problems, students maximize their SHSAT math score.
Next Read: Common SHSAT Mistakes That Cost You Points (and How to Avoid Them)
CTA: Ready to drill the most important math topics? Use our NYC SHSAT Practice Tests to practice smarter.