Geometry & Trigonometry
Area and volume, lines and angles, triangle similarity, circles and right-triangle trigonometry.
12 skill topics sit under Geometry & Trigonometry 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 Geometry & Trigonometry 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 Geometry & Trigonometry topics
Area and Volume Formulas
Use the area and volume formulas given on the SAT reference sheet without re-deriving them.
Open topic
Properties of Triangles
Use the triangle angle-sum, the exterior-angle theorem and the triangle inequality.
Open topic
Right-Triangle Trigonometry
Use SOH-CAH-TOA to find a missing side or angle in a right triangle.
Open topic
Special Right Triangles
Apply the 30-60-90 and 45-45-90 side ratios without a calculator.
Open topic
Similar and Congruent Triangles
Use AA, SSS and SAS criteria and corresponding-parts proportions.
Open topic
Circle Area and Circumference
Use A = πr² and C = 2πr and convert between radius, diameter and circumference.
Open topic
Equations of Circles
Translate (x − h)² + (y − k)² = r² into a centre and radius and back again.
Open topic
Arcs and Sectors
Use central-angle ratios to find arc length and sector area.
Open topic
Angles and Parallel Lines
Identify alternate-interior, corresponding and co-interior angles cut by a transversal.
Open topic
Polygons and Interior Angles
Use the (n − 2)·180° interior-angle sum and the regular-polygon angle formula.
Open topic
Three-Dimensional Figures
Compute volume and surface area for prisms, cylinders, pyramids, cones and spheres.
Open topic
Unit Circle and Radians
Convert between degrees and radians and read sine and cosine values from the unit circle.
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 Geometry & Trigonometry 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.