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Dealing With Inequalities

An inequality question is similar to a regular equation, but there are some differences. Basically, inequalities are solved like other equations, but there is not an equals sign. This means that there can usually be a range of answers that are correct for any particular question.  5a + 3 > 10 5a > 7 a > 7/5
  • Inequality questions have a range of answers. 
  • When multiplying or dividing a negative number, it is important to switch the direction of the sign of the numbers. 
TIP: It is important to watch for limits on both numbers and inequalities. The difference may change the possible correct answers. This is crucial to understand for those who want to get the highest possible score on the SAT math section. Test makers know that students are confused by inequalities and they use this fact to come up with questions that are intentionally confusing for test takers.  BONUS TIP: Sometimes it is possible for more than one answer to seem correct.  In these cases, it is important to choose the best answer for the question. This means using available information to find out which answer satisfies the question completely - more than any of the other answers. As usual, SAT test makers use this to confuse people taking the SAT math section.   

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