UPCAT Math Coverage.
The Mathematics subtest of the UPCAT contains questions from different topics you learned in high
school. Although UPCAT questionnaires vary every year, Math questions will most likely come from
the following subtopics:
a. Arithmetic and Number Sense.
b. Algebra.
Signed Numbers
Algebraic Expressions
Equations and Inequalities
Quadratic Equations
Systems of Equation
Polynomials
Functions and Relations
Fractions and Rational Functions
Cartesian Coordinate System (Graphing)
Word Problems
Exponents and Logarithms
Radicals
Sets and Set Notation
Complex Numbers
Sequences and Series
c. Geometry.
Reasoning
Definitions, Postulates, and Theorems
Angles
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
Triangle Postulates and Theorems (ASA, SSS, etc.)
Quadrilaterals and Other Polygons
Area and Volume
Circles
d. Trigonometry.
Basic Trigonometric Functions
Basic Identities
e. Statistics.
Measures of Central Tendencies (mean, median, mode)
Factorials
Counting, Permutation, and Combination
Probability
UPCAT Math Review Tips and Tricks.
Focus on the basics. Advanced math topics like calculus are nice to learn but don’t expect
them to appear in the UPCAT. Students with a good grasp of the fundamental math formulas and
principles can handle even the most complex math problems.
Trigonometry questions may appear but in only a few items. Review trigonometric ratios
and basic applications.
Since calculators will not be allowed on the day of the exam, make sure you know how to
compute by hand or through mental math techniques. Brush up on the multiplication table.
Practice solving long division problems. You can also download a PDF copy of Speed Math for
Kids if you’re still struggling with basic calculations.
Supplement your math review with free YouTube tutorials. Channels
like PatrickJMT provide clear, easy-to-follow math lessons you might have missed in school.
Master solving math problems involving fractions. Learn how to do the four basic
operations on similar and dissimilar fractions as well as how to express your answers in lowest
terms.
Answer as many practice tests as possible. You may not be able to cover every single
math topic on your review but you’ll develop problem-solving skills that are essential in passing
UPCAT. Besides, you can remember math formulas better with repeated testing/application than
with rote memorization.
When reviewing for UPCAT, internalize, don’t memorize. Understand the math behind
every formula. If you just memorize math formulas, you’ll fall victim to formula blindness, a
phenomenon wherein students fail to solve a problem because they assume the question is asking
for a specific formula when in fact it requires something else. To prevent this, review how math
formulas are derived so you won’t be misled to use a formula in a problem that deceptively asks
for another similar formula.
Familiarize yourself with the Filipino translations of common math terms, shapes, and
measuring units (see table below). Questions in Filipino may appear in all subtests not just in
Language Proficiency and Reading Comprehension.
