GED Math Study Guide 2026: Formulas, Algebra & Practice
GED Math Study Guide 2026: Formulas, Algebra, Geometry & Practice Questions
Preparing for GED Math becomes much easier when you know exactly what to study and how the questions are structured.
This GED Math Study Guide 2026 covers the major Mathematical Reasoning topics, including basic math, fractions, percentages, algebra, geometry, graphs, functions, statistics, formulas, calculator skills, worked examples, and GED-style practice questions.
The GED Mathematical Reasoning test currently lasts 115 minutes and covers four major areas: Basic Math, Geometry, Basic Algebra, and Graphs and Functions. Candidates have access to a math formula sheet, and calculator access is available for the calculator portion of the examination.
If you are preparing for all four GED subjects, begin with the 2026 GED Study Guide and then use this guide to focus specifically on Mathematical Reasoning.
For more structured lessons and practice, explore the GED Mathematical Reasoning preparation course from AIProctoredExams.
GED Math Test 2026: Quick Overview
Here are the most important facts to know before studying.
| GED Math Feature | Current Test Information |
|---|---|
| Subject | Mathematical Reasoning |
| Test Length | 115 minutes |
| Main Areas | Basic Math, Geometry, Basic Algebra, Graphs & Functions |
| Sections | 2 parts |
| Formula Sheet | Provided |
| Calculator | Available on Part 2 |
| Test-Center Calculator | TI-30XS permitted |
| Question Formats | Multiple choice and technology-enhanced items |
| Passing Score | 145 or higher |
GED Testing Service currently lists multiple-choice questions along with formats such as drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, select-an-area, and drop-down questions.
A July 2026 GED Testing Service article describes the Math test as containing about 46 questions, with a short non-calculator segment followed by a much larger calculator-permitted portion. Because test forms can vary, focus on pacing and skills rather than memorizing an exact question count.
What Math Is on the GED Test?
GED Mathematical Reasoning combines basic quantitative skills with algebraic reasoning.
Official GED educator materials describe the approximate content balance as:
- 55% Algebraic Problem Solving
- 45% Quantitative Problem Solving
This means algebra deserves significant attention, but you should not neglect number operations, proportions, geometry, statistics, and real-world mathematical reasoning.
Basic Math
Basic Math includes skills such as:
- Whole numbers
- Integers
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Percentages
- Ratios
- Proportions
- Rates
- Exponents
- Square roots
- Order of operations
Geometry
Geometry questions may involve:
- Perimeter
- Area
- Circumference
- Surface area
- Volume
- Angles
- Triangles
- Pythagorean theorem
- Coordinate geometry
Algebra
GED Algebra can include:
- Expressions
- Linear equations
- Inequalities
- Word problems
- Polynomials
- Quadratic relationships
- Systems and relationships
- Slope
- Equations of lines
- Functions
Graphs and Functions
You should know how to:
- Interpret graphs
- Read tables
- Find slope
- Understand functions
- Analyze linear relationships
- Compare graphs and equations
- Interpret real-world data
GED Math Formula Sheet 2026
One important advantage on GED Math is that you do not have to memorize every mathematical formula.
GED Testing Service provides a formula sheet so candidates can focus on choosing and applying the correct formulas. The official formula sheet includes formulas for areas, perimeter, circumference, surface area, volume, slope, linear equations, quadratic equations, the Pythagorean theorem, simple interest, distance, and total cost.
You can review the official GED Math Formula Sheet before test day.
The important skill is therefore not simply memorizing formulas. You need to recognize when and how to use them.
Essential GED Geometry Formulas
Area of a Square
A = s²
Where:
- A = area
- s = side length
Example:
A square has a side length of 8 feet.
A = 8²
A = 64 square feet
Area of a Rectangle
A = lw
Where:
- l = length
- w = width
Example:
A rectangular room is 12 feet long and 9 feet wide.
A = 12 × 9
A = 108 square feet
Area of a Triangle
A = ½bh
Where:
- b = base
- h = height
Example:
A triangle has a base of 10 cm and a height of 6 cm.
A = ½(10)(6)
A = 30 cm²
Area of a Circle
A = πr²
Where:
- r = radius
- π ≈ 3.14
If the radius is 5 inches:
A = 3.14 × 5²
A = 3.14 × 25
A = 78.5 square inches
Perimeter and Circumference Formulas
Rectangle Perimeter
P = 2l + 2w
If a rectangle measures 10 feet by 6 feet:
P = 2(10) + 2(6)
P = 20 + 12
P = 32 feet
Circumference of a Circle
You can use:
C = 2πr
or:
C = πd
where d represents diameter.
If a circle has a diameter of 10 inches:
C = 3.14 × 10
C = 31.4 inches
GED Volume Formulas
Rectangular Prism
V = lwh
Example:
A rectangular storage box measures:
- Length = 8 feet
- Width = 4 feet
- Height = 3 feet
V = 8 × 4 × 3
V = 96 cubic feet
Cylinder
V = πr²h
If:
- r = 3 cm
- h = 10 cm
V = 3.14 × 3² × 10
V = 3.14 × 9 × 10
V = 282.6 cm³
Pythagorean Theorem
The GED formula sheet includes:
a² + b² = c²
This is used with right triangles.
Example:
A right triangle has legs measuring 6 and 8.
6² + 8² = c²
36 + 64 = c²
100 = c²
c = 10
GED Basic Math Review
Basic arithmetic forms the foundation for the rest of the GED Math examination.
Fractions
You should know how to:
- Add fractions
- Subtract fractions
- Multiply fractions
- Divide fractions
- Simplify fractions
- Convert fractions to decimals
- Convert fractions to percentages
Example: Adding Fractions
Calculate:
1/4 + 3/8
Convert 1/4 to eighths:
1/4 = 2/8
Then:
2/8 + 3/8 = 5/8
Decimals
Practice:
- Decimal addition
- Decimal subtraction
- Decimal multiplication
- Decimal division
- Rounding
- Converting decimals to percentages
Example:
4.75 + 2.8 = 7.55
Percentages
Percentage questions are extremely useful to practice because they often appear in real-world scenarios involving:
- Discounts
- Tax
- Salary changes
- Interest
- Markups
- Statistics
Finding a Percentage of a Number
To find 20% of 150:
20% = 0.20
0.20 × 150 = 30
Finding a Sale Price
A $120 item is discounted by 25%.
Discount:
0.25 × 120 = 30
Sale price:
120 − 30 = $90
Ratios
A ratio compares two quantities.
For example:
If a class contains 12 men and 18 women, the ratio of men to women is:
12:18
Simplify by dividing both numbers by 6:
2:3
Proportions
A proportion states that two ratios are equal.
Example:
3/5 = x/20
Cross multiply:
5x = 60
x = 12
GED Algebra Study Guide
Algebra is one of the most important areas to study for GED Mathematical Reasoning.
Because official GED materials assign approximately 55% of Mathematical Reasoning content to algebraic problem solving, candidates should spend substantial preparation time developing algebra skills.
Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
Consider:
3x + 5x − 4
Combine like terms:
3x + 5x = 8x
Answer:
8x − 4
Solving Linear Equations
Example:
3x + 7 = 28
Subtract 7 from both sides:
3x = 21
Divide by 3:
x = 7
Equations With Variables on Both Sides
Example:
5x + 2 = 3x + 18
Subtract 3x:
2x + 2 = 18
Subtract 2:
2x = 16
Divide by 2:
x = 8
Solving Inequalities
Example:
2x + 3 > 11
Subtract 3:
2x > 8
Divide by 2:
x > 4
Remember that multiplying or dividing both sides of an inequality by a negative number reverses the inequality symbol.
GED Algebra Word Problems
Many candidates understand equations but struggle to translate written information into algebra.
Consider:
A gym charges a $25 registration fee plus $15 per month. If a member has paid $115 altogether, how many months has the membership been active?
Create an equation:
25 + 15m = 115
Subtract 25:
15m = 90
Divide by 15:
m = 6 months
The key is translating the situation before calculating.
GED Slope and Linear Equations
Slope measures how quickly one variable changes in relation to another.
The official GED formula sheet provides:
m = (y₂ − y₁) / (x₂ − x₁)
Finding Slope
Suppose a line passes through:
(2, 3) and (6, 11)
m = (11 − 3) / (6 − 2)
m = 8/4
m = 2
Slope-Intercept Form
The formula is:
y = mx + b
Where:
- m = slope
- b = y-intercept
Example:
y = 3x + 5
The slope is 3.
The y-intercept is 5.
Understanding Graphs
Be able to recognize whether a line:
- Increases from left to right
- Decreases from left to right
- Has zero slope
- Represents a proportional relationship
- Has a positive or negative y-intercept
GED Functions Study Guide
A function describes a relationship in which each input corresponds to an output.
For example:
f(x) = 2x + 3
If x = 4:
f(4) = 2(4) + 3
f(4) = 8 + 3
f(4) = 11
How to Evaluate Functions
When asked to find f(5), replace every x in the function with 5.
Example:
f(x) = x² − 4
f(5) = 5² − 4
f(5) = 25 − 4
f(5) = 21
GED Exponents and Square Roots
Exponents
An exponent tells you how many times a number is multiplied by itself.
Example:
4³ = 4 × 4 × 4 = 64
Square Roots
A square root reverses squaring.
For example:
√81 = 9
because:
9 × 9 = 81
Be comfortable recognizing common perfect squares such as:
| Number | Square |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4 |
| 3 | 9 |
| 4 | 16 |
| 5 | 25 |
| 6 | 36 |
| 7 | 49 |
| 8 | 64 |
| 9 | 81 |
| 10 | 100 |
| 12 | 144 |
GED Statistics and Data Analysis
GED Math may require you to interpret data and calculate basic statistics.
Mean
The mean is the average.
Example:
8, 10, 12, 14, 16
Add the numbers:
8 + 10 + 12 + 14 + 16 = 60
Divide by 5:
Mean = 12
Median
Arrange the numbers from least to greatest and identify the middle value.
Example:
3, 5, 8, 11, 15
Median = 8
Mode
The mode is the value that occurs most frequently.
Example:
2, 4, 4, 5, 7
Mode = 4
Range
Subtract the smallest value from the largest.
Example:
6, 9, 11, 15
Range:
15 − 6 = 9
GED Probability
Probability measures how likely an event is to occur.
The basic idea is:
Probability = favorable outcomes ÷ total possible outcomes
Example:
A bag contains:
- 3 red balls
- 2 blue balls
- 5 green balls
There are 10 balls altogether.
Probability of selecting a blue ball:
2/10 = 1/5
GED Simple Interest
The official GED formula sheet provides:
I = Prt
Where:
- I = interest
- P = principal
- r = interest rate
- t = time
Example:
$1,000 is invested at 5% simple interest for 3 years.
I = 1000 × 0.05 × 3
I = $150
GED Distance Problems
GED’s formula sheet also provides:
d = rt
where:
- d = distance
- r = rate
- t = time
Example:
A vehicle travels at 55 miles per hour for 3 hours.
d = 55 × 3
d = 165 miles
GED Math Calculator Guide
Calculator skills can save valuable time, but a calculator cannot replace mathematical understanding.
GED Testing Service currently identifies the TI-30XS as the calculator used for GED testing and provides a calculator reference sheet.
You can review the official GED TI-30XS Calculator Reference Sheet.
Calculator Skills to Practice
Become comfortable with:
- Addition and subtraction
- Multiplication and division
- Fractions
- Decimals
- Percentages
- Exponents
- Square roots
- Parentheses
- Negative numbers
- Scientific notation
- Order of operations
Do Not Depend on the Calculator for Everything
The beginning portion of Mathematical Reasoning includes questions where the calculator is not available.
You therefore need to be comfortable with basic arithmetic and number sense without electronic assistance.
Common GED Math Mistakes
Understanding common mistakes can improve your score almost as much as learning new content.
Ignoring Order of Operations
Remember the order:
- Parentheses
- Exponents
- Multiplication and division
- Addition and subtraction
Example:
8 + 3 × 4
Multiply first:
3 × 4 = 12
Then:
8 + 12 = 20
not 44.
Forgetting to Convert Percentages
Before multiplying by a percentage, convert it to a decimal.
25% = 0.25
not 25.
Using the Wrong Formula
If a question asks for area, do not calculate perimeter.
If it asks for circumference, do not calculate area.
Identify what the problem asks before choosing your formula.
Forgetting Units
Area should use squared units:
cm², ft², m²
Volume should use cubic units:
cm³, ft³, m³
Rushing Through Word Problems
Identify:
- What information is given?
- What is being asked?
- Which operation or formula is required?
- Does the final answer make sense?
How to Study for GED Math in 2026
Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Test
Start by answering GED-style questions without extensively reviewing first.
This helps reveal your actual weaknesses.
Step 2: Divide Your Mistakes by Topic
Create categories such as:
- Fractions
- Percentages
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Slope
- Functions
- Statistics
- Word problems
Step 3: Prioritize Algebra
Because algebraic problem solving represents a substantial portion of Mathematical Reasoning, spend enough study time on:
- Linear equations
- Expressions
- Inequalities
- Functions
- Graphs
- Slope
- Word problems.
Step 4: Practice the Formula Sheet
Do not simply read formulas.
Practice identifying:
- Which formula applies
- Which values belong in the formula
- Which unit the final answer requires
Step 5: Practice Calculator Skills
Use the TI-30XS interface regularly so calculator operation does not slow you down on test day.
Step 6: Complete Timed Practice
As your skills improve, begin working under realistic time limits.
The goal is to become both accurate and efficient.
You can use the AIProctoredExams GED Math preparation course for additional topic review and practice.
GED Math Practice Questions 2026
The following original practice questions cover several skills you should be prepared to use.
Practice Question 1: Percentages
A jacket originally costs $80 and is discounted by 25%. What is the sale price?
A. $20
B. $55
C. $60
D. $65
Correct Answer: C. $60
Explanation
Calculate the discount:
0.25 × 80 = 20
Subtract the discount:
80 − 20 = $60
Practice Question 2: Linear Equations
Solve:
3x + 7 = 28
A. 5
B. 7
C. 9
D. 12
Correct Answer: B. 7
Explanation
Subtract 7:
3x = 21
Divide by 3:
x = 7
Practice Question 3: Slope
What is the slope of the line passing through (2, 3) and (6, 11)?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Correct Answer: B. 2
Explanation
Use:
m = (y₂ − y₁)/(x₂ − x₁)
m = (11 − 3)/(6 − 2)
m = 8/4
m = 2
Practice Question 4: Triangle Area
A triangle has a base of 12 inches and a height of 7 inches. What is its area?
A. 19 in²
B. 42 in²
C. 84 in²
D. 96 in²
Correct Answer: B. 42 in²
Explanation
A = ½bh
A = ½(12)(7)
A = 6 × 7
A = 42 in²
Practice Question 5: Circumference
A circle has a diameter of 10 inches. Using π ≈ 3.14, what is its circumference?
A. 15.7 inches
B. 20 inches
C. 31.4 inches
D. 78.5 inches
Correct Answer: C. 31.4 inches
Explanation
Use:
C = πd
C = 3.14 × 10
C = 31.4 inches
Practice Question 6: Volume
A rectangular prism measures 8 feet long, 5 feet wide, and 3 feet high. What is its volume?
A. 16 ft³
B. 40 ft³
C. 80 ft³
D. 120 ft³
Correct Answer: D. 120 ft³
Explanation
V = lwh
V = 8 × 5 × 3
V = 120 ft³
Practice Question 7: Mean
What is the mean of:
8, 12, 15, 9, 16?
A. 10
B. 11
C. 12
D. 13
Correct Answer: C. 12
Explanation
Add the values:
8 + 12 + 15 + 9 + 16 = 60
There are 5 values.
60 ÷ 5 = 12
Practice Question 8: Pythagorean Theorem
A right triangle has legs measuring 6 feet and 8 feet. What is the hypotenuse?
A. 10 feet
B. 12 feet
C. 14 feet
D. 16 feet
Correct Answer: A. 10 feet
Explanation
a² + b² = c²
6² + 8² = c²
36 + 64 = 100
c = √100
c = 10 feet
Practice Question 9: Functions
If:
f(x) = 2x² − 3
what is f(4)?
A. 13
B. 21
C. 29
D. 35
Correct Answer: C. 29
Explanation
Substitute 4:
f(4) = 2(4²) − 3
= 2(16) − 3
= 32 − 3
= 29
Practice Question 10: Simple Interest
How much simple interest is earned on $1,200 invested at 5% per year for 2 years?
A. $60
B. $100
C. $120
D. $240
Correct Answer: C. $120
Explanation
Use:
I = Prt
I = 1200 × 0.05 × 2
I = $120
How to Improve Your GED Math Practice Scores
Do not simply count how many questions you answered correctly.
For every wrong answer, ask:
- Did I misunderstand the concept?
- Did I select the wrong formula?
- Did I make an arithmetic mistake?
- Did I misread the question?
- Did I enter something incorrectly into the calculator?
- Did I forget the units?
- Did I rush?
Keep an error log.
| Topic | Mistake | What to Review |
|---|---|---|
| Fractions | Different denominators | Adding fractions |
| Algebra | Sign error | Linear equations |
| Geometry | Used perimeter instead of area | Formula selection |
| Graphs | Misread scale | Graph interpretation |
| Word Problems | Chose wrong operation | Translating words into equations |
Repeated mistakes show you where your study time will produce the greatest improvement.
GED Math Test-Day Strategies
Complete Easier Questions Efficiently
Do not spend excessive time on one difficult question while leaving easier questions unanswered.
Estimate Before Calculating
Estimation can help determine whether your calculator result is reasonable.
Use the Formula Sheet Strategically
Identify what the question asks before searching for a formula.
Read Every Label on Graphs
Check:
- Axis titles
- Scale
- Units
- Legend
- Labels
Check Your Signs
Negative numbers can easily change the answer to an equation or inequality.
Check Units Before Selecting an Answer
Ask whether the problem requires:
- Units
- Square units
- Cubic units
- Percentages
- Dollars
- Miles per hour
Frequently Asked Questions About GED Math
How Long Is the GED Math Test in 2026?
GED Mathematical Reasoning currently lasts 115 minutes, including instructions, final review, and a short break between the two parts.
How Many Questions Are on GED Math?
GED Testing Service’s July 2026 preparation guidance describes the Math exam as containing about 46 questions, although the exact number can vary by test form.
What Math Is on the GED?
The four main areas are:
- Basic Math
- Geometry
- Basic Algebra
- Graphs and Functions.
Is Algebra Important on GED Math?
Yes. GED educator materials describe approximately 55% of Mathematical Reasoning as algebraic problem solving, compared with approximately 45% quantitative problem solving.
Do I Need to Memorize GED Math Formulas?
No. GED Testing Service provides a formula reference sheet. However, you still need to understand what the formulas mean and know when to use them.
What Calculator Is Used on GED Math?
GED Testing Service identifies the TI-30XS calculator and provides a calculator reference guide.
Can I Use a Calculator on Every GED Math Question?
No. Calculator access is provided for Part 2, while candidates need basic non-calculator skills for the first portion.
What Score Do I Need to Pass GED Math?
You need a minimum score of 145 on Mathematical Reasoning to meet the GED passing threshold.
What Is the Hardest Part of GED Math?
The answer varies by student, but algebra, functions, multi-step word problems, and translating real-world situations into equations often require substantial practice.
The best strategy is to use diagnostic questions to determine which topics are hardest for you.
How Can I Pass GED Math Faster?
Focus on:
- Diagnosing weak areas.
- Strengthening foundational arithmetic.
- Prioritizing algebra.
- Learning how to use the formula sheet.
- Practicing calculator skills.
- Completing GED-style questions.
- Reviewing every incorrect answer.
- Practicing under timed conditions.
Start Preparing for GED Math in 2026
GED Mathematical Reasoning becomes much more manageable when you break the examination into individual skills.
Start with basic numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages. Build your algebra skills. Practice geometry formulas. Learn to interpret graphs and functions. Become comfortable with the TI-30XS calculator and the GED formula sheet. Then use practice questions to identify the topics that still need work.
For structured preparation, continue with the AIProctoredExams GED Mathematical Reasoning course.
You can also explore the AIProctoredExams Study Guides for additional GED and exam-preparation resources.
If you are preparing for the complete high school equivalency examination, return to the 2026 GED Study Guide to review Mathematics, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies together.
New students can review How AIProctoredExams Works to understand how to access preparation resources and courses.
If you need help accessing study materials, visit the AIProctoredExams Help Center.
For official GED examination rules, formulas, calculator information, and current test specifications, always verify important testing details with GED Testing Service.
Master the concepts, practice the process, learn from every mistake, and approach GED Math one problem at a time.
