5 Praxis Core Math Tips

Math is a polarizing subject. Love it or hate it, math's role on the Praxis test is too big to ignore. Whether you've been acing math tests since elementary school or haven't taken a math class in years, preparation is the key to success on the Praxis Core Math exam. Follow these tips to brush up on the fundamentals and ensure a passing score on your very first attempt:

Get Comfortable with Math Terminology

Vocabulary can make or break a person's performance on the Praxis Core Math test. While you might not expect to be tripped up by terminology on a math-focused exam, the words and phrases used in test questions can be confusing. Even the most mathematically inclined test takers may feel thrown by the phrasing of some Praxis test questions. The good news? A few rounds with vocabulary flashcards can help you master these terms ahead of your exam.

List out keywords associated with geometry, algebra, and statistics. Define them in your own words – the clearer you phrase it, the better. Then write out these terms on flashcards, making sure to include any symbols or equations associated with the word. Go beyond simple memorization. You want to recognize these words and phrases on test day, but you also need to be ready to put them into action. Knowing exactly what the question is asking is just the start.

Brush Up on Formulas

The Praxis Core Math test covers middle school level mathematical concepts. Unfortunately, though, middle school math can be more challenging than you remember. If it's been several years since you last calculated the slope of a line, for instance, you may feel a bit panicked. Don't let math anxiety get you down! The formulas on the Praxis test are more straightforward than you might realize.

There are five basic formulas to master if you want to pass the Praxis: the Pythagorean Theorem, volume, perimeter, area and slope-intercept form. Like the aforementioned math terminology, these formulas can help you understand what the question is asking and how to arrive at the correct answer. Simply knowing which formula to use for each question can help relieve much of the anxiety you have about your performance. To get comfortable with these concepts, challenge yourself with practice questions associated with each formula. A practice test or two will have you ready to tackle any question the Praxis Core Math exam asks of you!

Identify Your Math Blind Spots

It's hard to know where you're going if you don't know where you've been. It's a philosophy that applies to both life and the Praxis Core Math test. You may feel comfortable and confident in your math skills ahead of your Praxis exam date, but without a thorough understanding of what's on the test and how your skills stack up, your performance may be a bit of a wild card. To make the most of your time and exam fees, work to identify the gaps in your math knowledge ahead of the test.

Start by taking a practice exam or two. The results will demonstrate exactly what you know and how well you know it. The incorrect answers are just as helpful as the right ones at this point in the process! By identifying the blind spots in your knowledge, you'll be more focused in your study efforts moving forward. Don't leave this to chance – even if you know you're struggling with algebra, you may not realize you're weak in geometry. Objective test results can provide the data necessary to inform your exam preparation.

Develop a Study Plan

Use the results of your Praxis Core Math practice test to develop a unique study plan that's tailored to your performance. If you've mastered questions about measuring a shape's volume and area, it's important not to waste more time on those concepts. Your study time is valuable, so create a plan that primarily targets your weak spots.

Some people study for an hour a day leading up to their Praxis test. Others pull all night cram sessions the night before. Consider your learning style before committing to any one study plan. Whether you choose to study every morning or decide to spend a couple nights a week at the library, treat these sessions like appointments. You're more likely to stick to the schedule if you've set aside time in your day to study.

Work Towards a Passing Score

Performance expectations on the Praxis Core Math test vary by state. As you study for your exam, make sure you understand exactly what score you'll need in order to pass. To determine what range of scores you must fall into to pass the Praxis test, check the ETS website. Once you've got your score in mind, the results of your practice tests will gain more context.

Test Prep for Teachers

You've got big dreams – don't let the Praxis Core Math test get in your way of achieving them! Exam Edge has the resources, tools, and practice tests necessary to prepare you for your upcoming Praxis test. Start now with a free sample practice exam> to see just how helpful we can be!