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Blueprint · Math · Reading · Writing
PERT Study Guide
One test, three independent subtests. Here's the blueprint — what each area weighs, what it actually tests, and where to start when you'd rather understand the questions than just answer them.
The PERT blueprint at a glance
| Subtest | Weight | What it actually tests |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 33% | Linear equations & inequalities, factoring quadratics, polynomial arithmetic, systems, literal equations |
| Reading | 33% | Main idea & purpose, vocabulary in context, evaluating evidence, fact vs. opinion, inference |
| Writing | 34% | Grammar & usage, sentence boundaries, modifiers & parallelism, organization & transitions |
How to use this guide
Baseline first
Take the full practice test, note which subtest drags, and start there.
Read the subtest guide
Learn what's really tested and which traps repeat, so your reps are aimed, not random.
Drill and re-check
Practice that subtest, read every rationale, then re-test to confirm the weak spot actually moved.
The blueprint isn't there to intimidate you. It's there so you stop studying the parts you've already got.
The Placement Day approachSubtest guides
Deep-dive guides ship subtest by subtest as demand shows up in search. The Math guide is live now; Reading and Writing are on the way — until then, drill them on the reading and writing practice tests.
Mathematics
What the algebra actually asks, the high-yield moves, and the sign-error traps — with a drill to match.
Read the guideReading
Main idea, inference, and vocabulary-in-context strategy. In the meantime, drill it on the reading practice test.
Writing
The Standard Written English rules that show up most, and the tempting wrong fixes. Drill it on the writing practice test for now.