COMPASS Math Placement Test

A group of tests covers basic arithmetic operations, algebra, college algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. You may choose the level at which to begin testing.

Each of the Math Placement tests gives you problems to work out. Because math knowledge and skills are forgotten so easily, you should brush up on your math skills before you take the test.

COMPASS will start testing you at the level you choose - basic arithmetic at the "Easy" level, introductory algebra at the "Medium" level, or college level algebra at the "Hard" level. If you demonstrate that you are knowledgeable and skillful at a given level, the program will present problems that require higher levels of math proficiency. If you start missing several problems in a particular level, the program will determine your level and will not give you any higher level problems. You must show that you are proficient at lower as well as higher level skills. If you know how to do algebra problems, but keep making mistakes in simple arithmetic, COMPASS might very well place you at pre-algebra level. You might have done well in calculus at high school, but it you make mistakes in basic algebraic operations, you might end up placed in basic algebra. It is very important that you review all the math you learned in high school or other math classes.

Preparation Tips

Math requires practice. If you have not done any math for a while, you should review the math you have previously learned. Review your old textbooks; then actually try to do some practice problems without looking at the book. Practice, practice practice! See "ACT Math Placement Sample Questions" under the Related Links section.

The Holomua Center has SkillsBank on Macintosh computers. See contact information below. This program contains tutorials for math and could help you refresh your math skills. You can register to use this program; however, it will not help you unless you are willing to put in the time to study with it. The SkillsBank program was not designed to prepare students for the COMPASS test, but it can serve as a good refresher for students who have not done mathematics problems for a while.

Mathematics Topics in the COMPASS Math Placement Test

Numerical Skills/Pre-Algebra

• Basic operations with integers
• Basic operations with fractions
• Basic operations with decimals
• Exponents
• Ratios and proportions
• Percentages
• Conversions between fractions and decimals
• Multiples and factors of integers
• Absolute values of numbers
• Averages (arithmetic means)
• Order concepts (greater than; less than)
• Estimation skills
• Number theory
• Counting problems and simple probability

Elementary Algebra

• Substituting values in algebraic equations
• Setting up equations in given situations
• Basic operations with polynomials
• Factoring polynomials
• Solving polynomial equations by factoring
• Formula manipulation and field axioms
• Linear equations in one variable
• Exponents
• Linear inequalities in one variable

Intermediate Algebra

• Rational expressions
• Exponents
• Systems of linear equations in 2 variables
• Quadratic formulas
• Absolute value equations and inequalities

Coordinate Geometry

• Linear equations in 2 variables
• Distance formulas in the plane
• Graphing conics (circle, parabola, etc.)
• Graphing relations in the plane
• Graphing systems of equations & functions
• Midpoint formulas

Trigonometry

• Trigonometric functions and identities
• Right-angle trigonometry
• Trigonometric equations & inequalities
• Graphs of trigonometric functions
• Special angles (multiples of 30 and 45 degrees)
• Polar coordinates

For more information, see "Placement Testing Information" under the Related Links section.