Backsolving — Start with the Answers

When answer choices are numbers, plug them into the problem.

Method:

1. Start with choice B or C (usually in order)

2. Plug that value into the problem

3. If it works, done

4. Too big? Go smaller. Too small? Go bigger.

Example: "If 3x + 7 = 22, what is x?"

Choices: A) 3 B) 5 C) 7 D) 9

Try B: 3(5) + 7 = 22. Done.

Best for: Problems hard to set up algebraically but easy to verify. Word problems with numeric answers.

Desmos combo: Type answer choices into Desmos and check visually. Backsolving plus calculator = maximum speed.

Reference:

Wikipedia: SAT

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SAT