Mathematics
Core topics
Expect arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and basic statistics. Accuracy under time pressure matters more than advanced technique.
Arithmetic and algebra
Know operations with fractions, percentages, ratios, and exponents. Know how to solve linear equations and factor quadratics. The trap is sign errors when moving terms across the equals sign, or misreading a percentage increase as a decrease.
Geometry
Know the area and perimeter formulas for triangles, rectangles, circles, and trapezoids, and the Pythagorean theorem. Know that the angles of a triangle sum to 180 degrees.
Statistics
Know mean, median, and mode. The trap is confusing median (middle value after sorting) with mean (average).
Worked example
Solve 2x + 5 = 17. Subtract 5 from both sides: 2x = 12. Divide by 2: x = 6. Check by substituting: 2(6) + 5 = 17. Always substitute back; it catches sign errors instantly.