Mathematics Basic study guide
Mathematics Basic · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
Mathematics Basic is a multiple-choice assessment of foundational mathematical reasoning, aimed at candidates who need to demonstrate practical numeracy and entry-level algebra rather than advanced or proof-based mathematics. It suits students finishing a basic mathematics requirement, adult learners returning to study, and job or program applicants who must show they can work confidently with numbers, formulas, shapes, and data. The content is organized into five domains: Number and Quantity (about 15% of the exam), Algebra (25%), Functions (20%), Geometry and Measurement (20%), and Statistics and Probability (20%). Questions test applied skill: simplifying and estimating, solving linear equations and inequalities, interpreting graphs and function notation, computing perimeter, area, volume, and unit conversions, and reading data through averages, spreads, and basic probability. The Mathematics Basic study guide has 5 sections and about 1,930 words.
01Number and Quantity
The Number and Quantity domain tests your fluency with real numbers and the operations and representations built on them: integers, fractions, decimals, percents, ratios, exponents, radicals, scientific notation, and measurement units. Questions reward careful sequencing and estimation rather than calculator dependence.
404 words, about 2 min02Algebra
Algebra tests symbolic fluency: simplifying expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities, systems, exponent and polynomial operations, factoring, and quadratic equations. The exam favors multi-step problems where one sign slip changes the answer.
386 words, about 2 min03Functions
The Functions domain tests the idea that a function pairs each allowed input with exactly one output. You will interpret function notation, connect equations, tables, and graphs, identify domain and range, and recognize linear, quadratic, and exponential behavior.
378 words, about 2 min04Geometry and Measurement
Geometry and Measurement tests spatial reasoning and formula use: angles, triangles, circles, perimeter, area, surface area, volume, similarity, coordinate geometry, and unit conversions. Diagrams are described in words, so translate each condition into an equation before calculating.
388 words, about 2 min05Statistics and Probability
Statistics and Probability tests how data are summarized, displayed, and used to estimate chance. Expect mean, median, mode, range, weighted averages, interpretation of graphs and tables, basic probability rules, expected value, and sampling ideas.
374 words, about 2 min