This free GED math study guide shows you what the test covers and how to solve the main types of problems. It also gives you a four-week plan. If you have not done math in years, you are in good company, so start at the beginning and go one topic at a time.
What Is on the GED Math Test?
The official name is Mathematical Reasoning. You get 115 minutes in total, including instructions, a final review and a 3-minute break between the two parts. You need at least 145 out of 200 to pass.
GED Testing Service lists four main areas: basic math, geometry, basic algebra, and graphs and functions.
You do not need to memorize formulas, because you will get a formula sheet. You also get an on-screen calculator for much of the test. The first part does not allow it, so keep your basic skills sharp.
Basic Math
Learn fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios and order of operations first. Everything else builds on them.
Example: Percentages. A $40 shirt is 25% off. What do you pay?
- Change 25% to a decimal: 0.25.
- Find the discount: 40 × 0.25 = 10.
- Subtract: 40 − 10 = $30.
Example: Averages. Find the mean of 4, 8, 6, 10 and 12.
- Add the numbers: 4 + 8 + 6 + 10 + 12 = 40.
- Divide by how many there are: 40 ÷ 5 = 8.
Basic Algebra
Algebra means finding a missing number by keeping both sides of an equation balanced.
Example: Solving an equation. Solve 3x + 7 = 22.
- Subtract 7 from both sides: 3x = 15.
- Divide both sides by 3: x = 5.
- Check your answer: 3(5) + 7 = 22, so it is correct.
Practice turning word problems into equations. For example, "a number increased by 7" becomes x + 7, and "twice a number" becomes 2x.
Geometry
Know perimeter, area, volume and the Pythagorean theorem. Your formula sheet helps, but you must recognize which formula a question calls for.
Example: Area. A rectangle is 8 feet long and 5 feet wide. Its area is 8 × 5 = 40 square feet.
Example: Right triangles. The two shorter sides are 6 and 8. Find the longest side.
- Use a² + b² = c²: 36 + 64 = 100.
- Take the square root of 100: c = 10.
Graphs and Functions
You will read graphs and work with lines and functions. Slope tells you how steep a line is.
Example: Slope. Find the slope of the line through (1, 2) and (3, 8).
- Find the change in y: 8 − 2 = 6.
- Find the change in x: 3 − 1 = 2.
- Divide: 6 ÷ 2 = 3.
Calculator and Test-Taking Tips
- Learn the on-screen calculator early. GED uses a TI-30XS style calculator, so practice with one.
- Use your formula sheet in practice. Then it will feel familiar on test day.
- Answer every question. Flag hard ones and come back if you have time.
- Check whether your answer makes sense. A $40 shirt on sale cannot cost $50.
- Read the last sentence first on long word problems. It tells you what you need to find.
A 4-Week GED Math Plan
Study about 30 minutes a day, and adjust the plan to fit your schedule.
- Week 1: Take a practice test. Then review whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages.
- Week 2: Study ratios, averages and basic algebra.
- Week 3: Study geometry and graphs, using your formula sheet.
- Week 4: Take timed practice tests and review each missed question.
Some people need more time, and that is fine. Keep a notebook of your errors so you know what to review. Take GED Ready when your practice scores are looking strong. It costs money, but it can tell you whether you are ready for the real test.
Free Ways to Keep Practicing
Your local adult education center may offer free or low-cost classes, so check with your state's adult education office. Public libraries are also useful, as many have study guides you can borrow. GED.com has official information on the test and sells GED Ready.
For more practice, try our GED practice test with answers. If you plan to test from home, see our guide to the GED test at home.
When to Get Help
Studying alone works for many people, but it can get frustrating when one topic will not click. Our GED prep starts with the subject closest to passing, and our private GED tutors explain every answer. See options on the pricing page.
You take the real test yourself, under GED Testing Service rules. To start, order GED prep online or call or WhatsApp +1 (217) 426-5403.