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Math ACT Formulas

I'm gearing up to take my ACT soon, and I'm focusing on improving my math score. Can anyone give me some essential math formulas that I should know for the ACT? Like, what are the most commonly used formulas that'll help me the most?

9 months ago

I'm happy to provide you with some essential formulas that'll be useful for the ACT Math section. Keep in mind that mastering these formulas isn't your only priority; understanding how to apply them is just as important. Here are some key formulas you should know:

1. Slope-intercept form of a linear equation: y = mx + b

m = slope

b = y-intercept

2. Point-slope form of a linear equation: y - y1 = m(x - x1)

3. Distance formula: d = √((x2 - x1)^2 + (y2 - y1)^2)

4. Midpoint formula: M = ((x1 + x2)/2 , (y1 + y2)/2)

5. Quadratic formula: x = (-b ± √(b^2 - 4ac))/(2a)

6. Vertex form of a quadratic equation: y = a(x - h)^2 + k

(h, k) = vertex coordinates

7. Pythagorean theorem: a^2 + b^2 = c^2

8. Area of a triangle: A = (1/2)bh

b = base

h = height

9. Trigonometric ratios (right triangles):

Sin(θ) = opposite / hypotenuse

Cos(θ) = adjacent / hypotenuse

Tan(θ) = opposite / adjacent

10. Volume of a rectangular solid: V = lwh

l = length

w = width

h = height

11. Circle equations:

Circumference: C = 2πr or C = πd

Area: A = πr^2

12. Special triangles:

30-60-90 triangle: opposite 30° = (1/2)hypotenuse, opposite 60° = (√3/2)hypotenuse

45-45-90 triangle: legs = (1/√2)hypotenuse

Of course, this list is not exhaustive, but these formulas should give you a solid base for tackling most ACT Math problems. Make sure you practice applying them in various contexts to become familiar with using them on the test. Good luck!

9 months ago

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