How to Ace Math on the ASVAB

Scoring high on the Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematical Knowledge sections of the ASVAB will help you qualify for most military jobs.

If you are looking to join one of the military services you will need high scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, particularly the math sections. There are two ASVAB subtests dedicated to math concepts: the Arithmetic Reasoning and Mathematical Knowledge sections. You will increase your score by first taking a practice test, study the areas where your scores are weakest and then taking another practice test.

Things You'll Need

• ASVAB test prep book
• Pencil
• Timer

Instructions

First Practice Test

1. Purchase an ASVAB test prep book. Select a book that has at least three practice tests and study guides for each of the nine test sections.

2. Take a practice ASVAB test. Try to approximate testing conditions as closely as possible by timing yourself. Your prep book should list the length of time available for each test.

3. Review scores. After you finish, check your math score. Try to figure out which types of math problems gave you the most trouble.

4. Review test taking strategies. Every ASVAB test prep book offers suggestions on maximizing your scores for multiple-choice tests. For example, you should never skip a question you don't know. At least make an educated guess.

Arithmetic Reasoning

1. Review basic math concepts for the Arithmetic Reasoning section of the test, stating with order of operations. A firm understanding of how to solve arithmetic expressions is essential for success on the ASVAB test. This information is located in the study guide section of the ASVAB test prep book.

2. Review fraction and decimal concepts. Understanding fractions and decimals is essential for taking proper measurements and solving algebra problems.

3. Review solving mathematical expressions with exponents. Exponents signify how many times a number is multiplied by itself. For example, when the number "2" has an exponent of "3," this is the same as the expression "2x2x2."

4. Review ratios. A ratio is an expression such as 2:3. Such a ratio means the for every two of item "a," there are three of item "b."

5. Review probability concepts. In mathematics, probability is the attempt to calculate the likelihood of an event occurring.

Mathematical Knowledge

1. Review equation solving strategies. Equations are mathematical expressions that have at least one variable, usually in the form of a letter. Most equation questions will ask you to find the value of the variable.

2. Review inequality concepts. Inequalities work just like equations except that instead of an equal sign (=), they have a less than (<) or greater than (>) sign in the middle of the expression.

3. Review geometry concepts. For these types of questions you will be asked to find the area, circumference, perimeter or radius of a geometric shape.

Second Test

1. Take another practice test. Again, try to simulate the testing conditions as much as possible. Time yourself and try to take the test at the same time of day.

2. Compare scores. See if there is overall improvement. Then look for the types of math questions that gave you trouble on the previous practice test and see if there is improvement there.

3. Schedule an appointment with the recruiter to take the official ASVAB test. When you feel confident in your math scores (and your scores on the test as a whole), you will be ready for the real thing.

References

• Google Books: Kaplan ASVAB: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery