About three-quarters of SAT Math. The four choices are a tool — learn to read and exploit them.
A multiple-choice question has a stem (the actual question) and four options, A–D, with exactly one correct. The presence of choices is information you can use — and a set of traps you must avoid. Read the whole question, including all four options, before you commit.
The answer is B (x + 1 = 7). Choice A is the planted trap — that is just x.
The trap to watch for
Notice the question asks for x + 1, not x. Solving 3x - 2 = 16 gives x = 6, so x + 1 = 7 — choice B. Choice A (6) is the value of x itself, planted as a distractor: the SAT loves answers that are correct work taken to the wrong final step. This is why re-reading the stem before you bubble is worth a few seconds on every question.
Three ways to attack it
Work forward. Solve directly when the algebra is quick.Fastest when you immediately see the method.
Backsolve. Plug the choices in (start with B or C).Great when checking is easier than solving.
Pick numbers. For all-variable problems, choose easy values.Turns abstract algebra into arithmetic you can trust.
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There is no penalty for a wrong answer, so never leave a multiple-choice question blank. If unsure, eliminate impossible options and guess.
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