Basic Concepts
In a nutshell: Mastering numbers and operations means you can confidently tackle all kinds of calculations.
## Understanding Numbers
Numbers are the building blocks of mathematics! On the ACT, you'll work with integers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Knowing how to compare, convert, and operate with these different types is key.
### Main Types of Numbers
- **Integers**: Positive and negative whole numbers (…,-3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3,…)
- **Fractions**: Parts of a whole, like \( \frac{3}{4} \)
- **Decimals**: Another way to write fractions, like 0.75
- **Percents**: Out of 100, like 75%
### Operations
The ACT expects you to add, subtract, multiply, and divide all these types, sometimes converting between them.
### Real-World Connection
Numbers and operations come up in shopping, banking, and cooking. You use them to calculate totals, split bills, or follow recipes.
### Tips
- Always align decimals when adding or subtracting.
- To compare fractions, convert them to decimals or a common denominator.
Examples
- Adding \( 2.5 + 3.4 = 5.9 \)
- Converting \( \frac{3}{4} \) to 75%
Key terms
- Integer
- A whole number, positive or negative, including zero.
- Percent
- A way to express a number as a part of 100.