Simple TEAS Math Tips to Save Time on Test Day

1. Skip and Return When Stuck

One of the biggest mistakes TEAS test-takers make is wasting too much time on one problem. The TEAS Math section is about overall performance, not perfection.

👉 Tip: If a question takes more than a minute, skip it, flag it, and return later. This ensures you answer easier questions first and maximize your TEAS math score.

2. Estimate Before You Solve

Estimation is one of the most powerful time-saving TEAS math tips. You don’t need to solve everything perfectly right away—especially in multiple-choice questions.

Example: For 49 × 52, round to 50 × 50 = 2500. Any answer far from 2500 can be eliminated immediately.

👉 Tip: Use estimation to rule out wrong answers quickly and save time.

3. Memorize Conversions and Formulas

Memorizing TEAS math formulas and conversions will save you from wasting time on test day.

Must-know conversions:

1. 1 inch = 2.54 cm
2. 1 lb = 16 oz
3. 1 kg ≈ 2.2 lbs
4. 1 L = 1000 mL

Must-know formulas:

1. Area of a rectangle = length × width
2. Area of a triangle = ½ × base × height
3. Volume of a rectangular prism = length × width × height

👉 Tip: Create a TEAS math formula sheet during practice and review it daily.

4. Use Shortcuts for Fractions and Ratios

Fractions and ratios can eat up time. These TEAS math tricks help:

1. Compare fractions with cross-multiplication.
2. Convert fractions to decimals for faster comparisons (¼ = 0.25, ½ = 0.5, ¾ = 0.75).
3. For proportions, set up ratios side-by-side and cross-multiply.

👉 Tip: Practice a few fraction problems daily until you solve them without hesitation.

5. Spot the Fluff in Word Problems

TEAS word problems often include extra details to confuse you. Focus only on the numbers that matter.

Example:

“A recipe calls for ⅔ cup of sugar for 12 cookies. How much sugar is needed for 36 cookies if you also add chocolate chips?”

1. Ignore the chocolate chips. Focus only on the sugar-to-cookies ratio.

👉 Tip: Underline keywords like per, total, difference, remaining to stay focused.

6. Check with Estimation (Not Full Re-Work)

Instead of re-solving problems, do a reasonableness check.

Example: If your answer to 198 ÷ 3 is 66, estimate 200 ÷ 3 ≈ 67. Since your answer is close, it’s likely correct.

👉 Tip: Quick checks save time and reduce careless errors.

7. Practice with a Timer

Speed is a skill. If you only practice without timing, the real test may feel overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

The TEAS Math section doesn’t have to feel like a race. By skipping tough questions, estimating answers, memorizing formulas, and practicing under timed conditions, you can save over 10 minutes and boost your chances of achieving a higher TEAS score.

Remember: The right strategies are just as important as knowing the content. Use these TEAS math tips to walk into the exam calm, confident, and ready to succeed.

✨ Want more TEAS strategies and Free TEAS practice questions? Explore our full set of TEAS prep resources on ProvicHub.