Desmos Resources for SAT & ACT Test Takers
Ever since College Board and ACT first allowed test takers to use calculators to tackle math problems on their respective tests, students have sought out any advantage these tools could offer. Those of us who have seen more than one version of these illustrious exams come and go know well that every math problem can be answered without a calculator. But considering how many problems are more easily solved with support and how powerful Desmos can be on certain SAT and ACT (digital, of course) questions, learning some key techniques and strategies can lead to a much happier test day experience. Any student sitting for an exam that includes Desmos as an embedded calculator option should explore the interface in advance and master simple applications like sliders and regression table. Those willing to invest a small amount into a guided course will find the Demystifying Desmos on the SAT Course…
SAT Calculator Policy and Strategy
One of the great testing innovations of the 21st century was when the College Board first allowed calculators on at least some SAT Math questions–actually this was 1994, but close enough. That breakthrough in solving convenience and power is matched only by the addition of a powerful Desmos calculator to the digital SAT in 2023. As someone who survived SAT testing with nothing but a #2 pencil, scrap paper, and my wits, I can attest to the advantages of the right calculator at the right time. Recent refinements to College Board’s SAT Calculator Policy merits some discussion about which devices are acceptable for test day: The Desmos calculator embedded in the Bluebook testing app This is a powerful calculator that includes features similar to a handheld graphing calculator. If you are familiar with how to use this calculator, the embedded version is a good choice. Graphing calculators that do not…
When Desmos is Best
On the SAT Math section, students have plenty of options for handling calculations. The longest running way to solve math problems has historically been to work them out by hand, and this still remains a compelling choice in some instances. Over the last several decades, the SAT also permitted students to bring and deploy graphing calculators on the Math section. And most recently, the digital SAT includes a robust version of Desmos, a free online graphing calculator. Lots of options can lead to overwhelm, especially when each one shines brightest in certain scenarios. However, experience shows that Desmos is absolutely ideal for certain kinds of math questions on the test. When should you consider deploying Desmos? SYSTEMS OF EQUATIONS AND INEQUALITIES The first and arguably best use case for Desmos is for questions involving systems of equations, of which you’ll find many on the SAT. The large, colorful Desmos display…
The Power of Desmos on the SAT
Historically, the College Board hasn’t always favored the use of calculators on the SAT. Even when graphic calculators were permitted, many questions demanded the kind of math conceptual understanding and problem solving skills that no Texas Instruments device, no matter how advanced, could provide. The last version of the SAT even had a full Math section where calculators were prohibited. But new tests reflect new philosophies, and the digital SAT appears to embrace what it once shunned. Not only are calculators permitted on every math question, but the exam also currently includes a fully-functional Desmos graphing calculator. This calculator, as of the time of this writing, is robust and effective. The design of SAT math questions seems to have changed as well. While previous iterations of the SAT appeared to be written to punish dependence on calculators, the digital test rewards it to a surprising degree. Some colleagues I respect…