October 2026 - Everyday Math Skills Study Guide

Core ideas to know

Learn the relationships, not a string of isolated definitions. These are the facts that let you reason through unfamiliar wording.

• Ratios and proportions compare quantities; keep matching units in matching positions before cross-multiplying.
• Metric conversions move by powers of ten. Larger units have smaller numerical values for the same measurement.
• Household approximations: 1 teaspoon is 5 mL, 1 tablespoon is 15 mL and 1 fluid ounce is about 30 mL.
• Military time runs from 0000 through 2359. For afternoon times after 1259, subtract 1200 to reach standard time.
• Roman numerals: I, V, X, L and C represent 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100; a smaller numeral before a larger one is subtracted.

A reliable way to answer

Use the same short process every time so the wording of the question does not decide your method for you.

1. Underline the requested quantity and unit before using any numbers.
2. Convert given values into compatible units, writing a conversion factor so unwanted units cancel.
3. Choose the operation only after the units are aligned: proportion, elapsed-time subtraction or summary statistic.
4. Estimate the size of the answer and reject a result whose unit or scale is impossible.

Distinctions that earn marks

Terms to know

Conversion factor

A ratio equal to one that changes the unit without changing the quantity.

Proportion

An equation stating that two ratios are equal.

Median

The middle value after data are placed in numerical order.

Key points

• Write and cancel units instead of relying on a remembered direction.
• Military time contains four digits and does not use a.m. or p.m.
• Estimate first so a reversed conversion cannot pass unnoticed.