How to answer it
- Translate “at least” or “no more than” into ≥ or ≤.
- Solve as you would an equation.
- For counts, round to the whole number that still satisfies the inequality.
Worked example
An original question in the SAT format, already answered.
SAT MathWorked example
A club needs at least $500 for a trip. It has $140 and earns $12 for each T-shirt it sells.
What is the minimum number of T-shirts the club must sell?
- A29
- B30
- C31
- D42
Answer: B. 140 + 12n ≥ 500, so 12n ≥ 360 and n ≥ 30. Selling 30 shirts gives exactly $500, which meets “at least.”
The most common trap
Rounding up out of habit. If the division comes out even, that number already works.
Practice it
Hourly Prep’s daily sets mix linear inequalities with the rest of SAT Math, and send more of it your way when it’s a weak spot. See how the SAT prep plan works, or browse the other SAT skill guides.