SAT Word Problems: Turn Any Sentence Into an Equation

Word problems are half of SAT math, and most missed points come from the translation, not the algebra. This lesson shows the phrase-by-phrase method: define the variable, map each phrase to a piece of the equation, then solve. Worked example, a your-turn problem, and the three traps that cost points. Chapters: 0:00 Why word problems cost points 0:23 Set up: define the variable 1:02 Translate phrase by phrase, then solve 1:43 The phrase-to-math dictionary 2:22 Your turn 3:02 Three traps 3:39 Recap The phrase dictionary: per / each / every = a rate (multiply the variable) flat fee / one-time charge = a constant (add it) is / total = equals "less than" flips the order: 7 less than n is n - 7 Free SAT practice with 40 full mock exams and 17,000+ questions at satclimb.com.