How to Pass Praxis Core Math: A No-Panic Guide for 2026
Let's be honest: if you're reading this, math probably isn't your favorite subject. Maybe you haven't touched algebra since high school. Maybe fractions make your brain freeze. Maybe you've already failed the Praxis Core Math once and the thought of retaking it fills you with dread.
You're not alone. The Praxis Core Math (5733) is the single most failed section of the Praxis Core exam, and the #1 reason aspiring teachers delay their certification. But here's the good news: this test doesn't require advanced math skills. It tests basic math at the high school level — and with the right strategy, anyone can pass it.
This guide is specifically written for people who struggle with math. No judgment, no jargon, just practical strategies that work.
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Praxis Core Math (5733) at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Test Code | 5733 (standalone) or part of 5752 (combined) |
| Questions | 56 |
| Time | 90 minutes (~1.6 minutes per question) |
| Passing Score | 150 (most states) |
| Score Range | 100–200 |
| Cost | $90 per subtest |
| Calculator | On-screen calculator provided |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice + numeric entry |
| Retake Wait | 28 days |
Key fact: Most states require a score of 150 to pass. Washington state requires 142. Always verify your state's specific requirement.
The 4 Content Areas (And How Hard Each One Actually Is)
Area 1: Number & Quantity (~30% of test)
What it covers: Fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, proportions, order of operations, number properties
Difficulty for math-haters: Medium-High
This is the foundation of the entire test. If you're shaky on fractions and percentages, everything else will feel harder. The good news is these are learnable, memorizable skills — not abstract thinking.
Must-know concepts:
- Converting between fractions, decimals, and percentages (e.g., 3/4 = 0.75 = 75%)
- Adding and subtracting fractions with different denominators
- Ratio and proportion word problems (use cross-multiplication every time)
- Order of operations (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction)
- Place value and rounding
Quick win strategy: Memorize these conversions — they appear on nearly every test:
| Fraction | Decimal | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 | 0.5 | 50% |
| 1/3 | 0.333 | 33.3% |
| 1/4 | 0.25 | 25% |
| 1/5 | 0.2 | 20% |
| 1/8 | 0.125 | 12.5% |
| 1/10 | 0.1 | 10% |
| 2/3 | 0.667 | 66.7% |
| 3/4 | 0.75 | 75% |
Area 2: Algebra & Functions (~30% of test)
What it covers: Solving equations, linear functions, inequalities, patterns, coordinate geometry
Difficulty for math-haters: High
This is where most test-takers lose points. But the Praxis Core only tests basic algebra — no quadratics, no trigonometry, no calculus. If you can solve for x in a simple equation, you're already halfway there.
Must-know concepts:
- Solving one-step and two-step equations (e.g., 2x + 5 = 13)
- Understanding slope and y-intercept (y = mx + b)
- Reading and interpreting graphs of lines
- Simple inequalities (greater than, less than)
- Recognizing patterns in number sequences
Biggest trap: Word problems that look complicated but are simple algebra underneath. Practice translating words into equations:
- "Three more than twice a number" = 2x + 3
- "The product of 5 and a number, decreased by 7" = 5x - 7
Area 3: Geometry & Measurement (~20% of test)
What it covers: Area, perimeter, volume, angles, coordinate geometry, unit conversions
Difficulty for math-haters: Medium
Geometry on the Praxis Core is formula-based. If you know the formulas, you can answer the questions. You don't need proofs or abstract geometric reasoning.
Must-know formulas:
| Shape | Area | Perimeter |
|---|---|---|
| Rectangle | length × width | 2(length + width) |
| Triangle | ½ × base × height | sum of all sides |
| Circle | π × r² | 2πr (circumference) |
| 3D Shape | Volume |
|---|---|
| Rectangular Box | length × width × height |
| Cylinder | π × r² × height |
Bonus tip: For unit conversions, set up a proportion and cross-multiply. Don't try to do conversions in your head — write them out.
Area 4: Data, Statistics & Probability (~20% of test)
What it covers: Reading graphs/charts, mean/median/mode, basic probability, data interpretation
Difficulty for math-haters: Low-Medium
This is often the easiest section for math-haters because it's more about reading and interpreting data than doing calculations. If you can read a bar graph and find an average, you can score well here.
Must-know concepts:
- Mean (average) = sum of all values ÷ number of values
- Median = middle value when numbers are in order
- Mode = most frequently occurring value
- Range = highest value - lowest value
- Probability = favorable outcomes ÷ total possible outcomes
- Reading bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, and data tables
Easiest points on the test: Graph-reading questions are straightforward — they just ask you to read values from a chart. Don't overthink them.
The 7 Strategies That Actually Work
Strategy 1: Start with Data & Statistics
When you sit down to study, don't start with algebra (the hardest area for most people). Start with data and statistics — it's the most intuitive section and will build your confidence. Small wins create momentum.
Strategy 2: Use the On-Screen Calculator Wisely
You get an on-screen calculator, but don't use it for everything. The calculator can actually slow you down on simple arithmetic. Use it for:
- Long multiplication or division
- Percentage calculations
- Checking your work on fraction operations
Don't use it for: Basic addition/subtraction, simple comparisons, or reading graphs.
Strategy 3: Eliminate and Guess Strategically
There's no penalty for wrong answers on the Praxis Core. This means:
- Never leave a question blank — even a random guess gives you a 25% chance
- Eliminate 1-2 obviously wrong answers first, then guess — your odds jump to 33-50%
- If you're stuck after 2 minutes, guess, flag it, and move on
Strategy 4: Plug In Numbers for Algebra
When an algebra question uses variables, try plugging in simple numbers (like 2, 5, or 10) to test each answer choice. This often works faster than solving the equation algebraically, especially if algebra makes you anxious.
Example: "If x + 7 = 3x - 1, what is x?"
- Try x = 4: Left side = 4 + 7 = 11. Right side = 3(4) - 1 = 11. They match. Answer is 4.
Strategy 5: Draw Pictures for Word Problems
Word problems are easier when you can see them. If a question describes a rectangle, draw a rectangle and label the sides. If it's about distance, draw a line. Visual representation reduces errors and calms anxiety.
Strategy 6: Master the "Back-Solve" Technique
For multiple-choice questions, you can work backwards from the answer choices. Start with the middle answer and see if it works. If it's too big, try a smaller option. If it's too small, try bigger.
Strategy 7: Take Timed Practice Tests Weekly
Nothing beats practice under real conditions. Take at least one full-length practice test per week during your study period. This builds stamina, reveals weak spots, and reduces test-day anxiety.
6-Week Study Plan for Math-Haters
| Week | Focus | Daily Study | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Data & Statistics | 30–45 min | Master mean, median, mode, graph reading |
| Week 2 | Number & Quantity Part 1 | 45–60 min | Fractions, decimals, percentages |
| Week 3 | Number & Quantity Part 2 | 45–60 min | Ratios, proportions, word problems |
| Week 4 | Geometry & Measurement | 45–60 min | Formulas, area, perimeter, volume |
| Week 5 | Algebra & Functions | 45–60 min | Equations, slope, patterns |
| Week 6 | Practice Tests & Review | 60 min | 2-3 full practice tests, weak spots |
Total study time: ~30–40 hours over 6 weeks
Important: If you've already failed once, extend this to 8 weeks and add an extra practice test per week.
Access Your FREE Praxis Core Study Materials
Our comprehensive study guide includes:
- Targeted math lessons for all 4 content areas
- Step-by-step problem-solving walkthroughs
- Practice questions with detailed explanations
- AI-powered tutoring for instant help
- 100% FREE — no credit card required
Common Mistakes That Cost You Points
1. Spending Too Long on One Question
You have 90 minutes for 56 questions — about 1 minute 36 seconds each. If you spend 5 minutes on one hard question, you'll rush through 3 easy ones and make careless errors. Flag it and move on.
2. Not Reading the Question Carefully
The Praxis Core loves "which of the following is NOT" questions. Read every question twice before answering. Circle or underline key words like NOT, EXCEPT, LEAST, and APPROXIMATELY.
3. Forgetting to Convert Units
Many wrong answers are the right number in the wrong unit. If a question asks for feet and you solve in inches, you'll get the wrong answer even with perfect math.
4. Ignoring the Answer Choices
Before doing heavy math, glance at the answer choices. If they're far apart (like 12, 48, 96, 192), you can estimate rather than calculate exactly. If they're close together, you need precision.
5. Over-Relying on the Calculator
Students who use the calculator for every question run out of time. Practice mental math for simple operations so you save the calculator for genuinely complex calculations.
What If You've Already Failed?
Failing the Praxis Core Math is more common than you think. Here's your action plan:
- Wait the required 28 days before retaking
- Request your score report — it shows performance by content area
- Focus exclusively on your weakest areas — don't restudy what you already know
- Take 3-4 full practice tests under timed conditions
- Consider a different study resource — if your first approach didn't work, try a different one
Good news: There's no limit on how many times you can retake the Praxis Core Math. You just need to wait 28 days between attempts.
State-by-State Passing Score Requirements
| Score Required | States |
|---|---|
| 150 | Most states (default requirement) |
| 142 | Washington |
| Varies | Some states accept other exams in lieu of Praxis Core |
Pro tip: Some states offer alternative pathways to certification that don't require the Praxis Core. Check your state department of education for options.
You Can Pass Praxis Core Math
Math anxiety is real, but it's beatable. With the right strategy, consistent practice, and targeted study, you can pass the Praxis Core Math — even if it's your least favorite subject. Thousands of teachers who "hate math" have passed this exam, and you can too.
No credit card required. Start studying today.
Official Resources
- ETS Praxis Core Information — Official exam registration, test dates, and requirements
- ETS Praxis Score Requirements by State — Verify your state's passing score
- ETS Study Companion for Praxis Core Math — Free official study guide with sample questions