SHSAT Math Section

Math Overview

Conquer the SHSAT Math Section

The Math section of the SHSAT covers a broad range of topics from the 7th and 8th grade curricula, including ratios and proportional relationships, the number system and expressions, equations and inequalities, geometry, and statistics and probability. On the computer-adaptive SHSAT (from Fall 2026), the 50 Math questions mix multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank (student-entered) answers and technology-enhanced items. Formulas are not provided, and once you move past a Math question you cannot go back to it.

The math on the SHSAT is not about advanced concepts — it is about applying grade-level math skills accurately and efficiently under time pressure. Students who master the core topics and develop reliable problem-solving strategies consistently outperform those who simply know the formulas.

Dr. Donnelly identifies each student's specific math weaknesses and builds a targeted improvement plan that maximizes score gains in the available prep time.

On the paper SHSAT these were called grid-in questions. On the computer-adaptive test, students type their own answer into a box instead of choosing from options. There are no answer choices to guide you or use for estimation.

Key Fill-In Facts

• You calculate the answer yourself and enter it in the format the question asks for
• Answers must be precise — partial credit is not given
• Fill-in questions often test the same topics as multiple-choice but require more careful calculation
• These questions reward students who show their work and double-check computations

Dr. Donnelly's Fill-In Strategy

Students learn to set up problems methodically, check their arithmetic, and use estimation to verify that their answers are reasonable. With practice, fill-in questions become a reliable source of points rather than a source of anxiety.