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SAT Math skill page

SAT Exponential Functions Practice

Learn how exponential growth and decay show up in SAT tables, equations, and word problems.

Practice exponential functions in Dolphin SAT Try examples
12-18 min practice time 3 examples on page Advanced Math
Practice time 12-18 min
On-page examples 3 examples
Best for Advanced Math

What this tests

What to know for this SAT skill

Practice examples

Try a few SAT-style questions

Example 1 Easy

A population starts at 200 and doubles each year. Which expression gives the population after t years?

  1. 200 + 2t
  2. 200(2)^t
  3. 2(200)^t
  4. 200t^2
Show answer and explanation

Answer: 200(2)^t

The starting value is 200 and doubling means multiplying by 2 each year, so the model is 200(2)^t.

Example 2 Medium

If f(x) = 5(3)^x, what is f(2)?

  1. 15
  2. 30
  3. 45
  4. 125
Show answer and explanation

Answer: 45

Substitute x = 2: f(2) = 5(3)^2 = 5(9) = 45.

Example 3 Hard

A value decreases by 20% each month from an initial value of 600. Which expression represents the value after m months?

  1. 600(0.20)^m
  2. 600(0.80)^m
  3. 600 - 20m
  4. 600(1.20)^m
Show answer and explanation

Answer: 600(0.80)^m

A 20% decrease leaves 80% of the value each month, so the multiplier is 0.80.

Quick drills

Practice this skill from more angles

Drill 1

Recognize exponential growth and decay from equations

Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.

Drill 2

Interpret the starting value and growth factor

Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.

Drill 3

Compare linear and exponential patterns

Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.

Drill 4

Use tables to find a constant multiplier

Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.

Avoid these traps

Common mistakes on this skill

Solving before naming the task

The SAT often hides the real skill inside familiar wording. Identify the rule, relationship, or question type first.

Choosing an answer that only partly fits

Many wrong answers are close. Check every condition in the question before committing.

Skipping the final check

Reread what the question asks for so you do not answer a nearby but different question.

Study plan

How to practice this skill in Dolphin

  1. Read the question and name the tested skill before looking at the choices.
  2. Write the equation, rule, or passage relationship in plain language.
  3. Eliminate answers that violate the setup or overstate the evidence.
  4. Review misses by writing the exact trap that pulled you toward the wrong answer.
Practice exponential functions in Dolphin SAT

Related practice

Build the surrounding skills

SAT Linear Functions PracticeSAT Quadratic Equations PracticeSAT Equivalent Expressions PracticeSAT Math skill hub

Skill cluster

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FAQ

Questions about SAT Exponential Functions Practice

What is the best way to practice SAT Exponential Functions Practice?

Start with a few focused examples, review the mistake pattern, then mix the skill into full SAT practice so you can recognize it in context.

Why does this skill matter on the SAT?

It shows up in short, high-leverage questions where one missed rule or setup can quickly cost a point.

Can Dolphin SAT help me drill this skill?

Yes. Dolphin SAT can surface targeted practice, track missed questions, and help you review the patterns that keep repeating.