Algebra
Linear equations, linear functions, systems and inequalities — the largest content domain on the Digital SAT Math section.
15 skill topics sit under Algebra on the SAT Math taxonomy. Each one has its own dedicated page with concept notes and six worked practice questions. Work through the list top to bottom, or jump straight to the topic you struggle with.
This category accounts for a meaningful slice of your overall math score, so spend the time. The fastest way to gain points is to convert one weak topic per week into a strong one — not to skim every topic at surface depth.
Need the formulas at a glance? See the Algebra formula sheet. Studying for a specific score range? Use the score-band guides to focus on the topics that move the needle for your current score.
All Algebra topics
Linear Equations in One Variable
Solve equations of the form ax + b = c using inverse operations and verify by substitution.
Open topic
Linear Equations in Two Variables
Interpret ax + by = c as a relationship and convert between standard, slope-intercept and point-slope forms.
Open topic
Linear Functions
Read slope and y-intercept from a function rule, table or graph and use them to predict outputs.
Open topic
Systems of Linear Equations
Solve two-equation systems by substitution, elimination or graphing, and recognise consistent, inconsistent and dependent systems.
Open topic
Linear Inequalities
Solve and graph one-variable and two-variable linear inequalities, paying attention to the inequality flip when multiplying by a negative.
Open topic
Absolute Value Equations
Translate |x − a| = b into the two cases x − a = b and x − a = −b before solving.
Open topic
Slope and Rate of Change
Use the slope formula (y₂ − y₁)/(x₂ − x₁) to interpret average rate of change in real contexts.
Open topic
Point-Slope and Standard Form
Convert between y − y₁ = m(x − x₁), y = mx + b and Ax + By = C without losing information.
Open topic
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
Use the slope rules m₁ = m₂ for parallel lines and m₁·m₂ = −1 for perpendicular lines.
Open topic
Graphing Linear Equations
Plot lines from any of the three standard forms and identify intercepts directly from the equation.
Open topic
Linear Word Problems
Translate a real-world story into a linear model and answer the question the problem actually asks.
Open topic
Rates, Ratios and Proportions
Set up proportional relationships and decide when a situation is — and is not — proportional.
Open topic
Percentage Applications
Compute discounts, mark-ups, tax and percent change with a single multiplier.
Open topic
Mixture Problems
Track total quantity and total ingredient separately when combining solutions of different concentrations.
Open topic
Distance, Rate and Time
Use d = rt and convert between average rate, total distance and total time.
Open topic
Recommended study order
If this category is brand new to you, start with the first three topics in the list above — they tend to be the most foundational. Then work outward to the others. If you're already comfortable, go straight to a recent past paper, identify which Algebra question you missed, and drill that specific topic page.
For broader test-prep advice, see our study tips. For real test reference, browse the SAT Math past paper index.