As a 16–Year Old Who’s Never Gotten Past 5th-Grade, What’s Everything I Need to Learn Math-Wise for a GED?

Essential Math Skills for GED Preparation: A Guide for Self-Learning

Preparing for the GED exam can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re starting from scratch. This is a common challenge for many, and it’s commendable that you’re taking the initiative to self-educate. If you’re approximately 17 years old and have limited prior formal instruction, understanding the basic mathematical concepts needed to succeed on the GED is vital. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you should focus on to build a solid foundation and achieve a good grade.

Understanding Your Starting Point

It’s important to recognize that foundational skills are crucial. Since you’re comfortable with basic arithmetic operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—you’re already on the right track. Moving forward, your goal should be to deepen these skills and expand into more advanced areas gradually.

Key Math Topics to Cover for the GED

  1. Fractions and Decimals
  2. Understanding parts of a whole
  3. Converting between fractions and decimals
  4. Simplifying fractions
  5. Performing operations with fractions and decimals

  6. Percentages

  7. Calculating percentages
  8. Percentage increase and decrease
  9. Word problems involving percentages

  10. Ratios and Proportions

  11. Understanding ratios
  12. Solving proportion problems
  13. Applications in real-world contexts

  14. Basic Algebra

  15. Solving for variables in simple equations
  16. Understanding algebraic expressions
  17. Working with inequalities

  18. Number Operations and Properties

  19. Prime numbers and factors
  20. Greatest common divisor and least common multiple
  21. Exponents and roots

  22. Data Interpretation and Graphs

  23. Reading and understanding bar graphs, line charts, and pie charts
  24. Basic statistics: mean, median, mode

  25. Geometry

  26. Recognizing basic shapes and their properties
  27. Calculating perimeter, area, and volume
  28. Understanding angles and their measurements

  29. Word Problems and Real-World Applications

  30. Applying math concepts to solve practical problems
  31. Developing problem-solving strategies

Tips for Self-Studying Math for the GED

  • Start with what you know: Master basic arithmetic, then progress to fractions and decimals.
  • Use online resources: Websites like Khan Academy, GED.com, and other educational platforms offer free lessons tailored for GED prep.
  • Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps reinforce concepts and improves

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