The GED (General Educational Development) battery includes four subject tests: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Social Studies, and Science. Pass rates from the GED Testing Service show Mathematical Reasoning consistently has the lowest first-attempt success rate around 60-65% nationally in recent years—making it the hardest for most test-takers.
Why Math Is the Toughest
- Content Depth: It covers algebra (35%), quantitative problem-solving (25%), geometry (20%), and basic math (20%). Unlike other sections, it requires active problem-solving rather than recall or reading comprehension.
- No Calculator for Part 1: The first 5 questions ban calculators, testing mental math and formula recall under pressure.
- Time Pressure: 115 minutes for 46 questions (including typed short answers) leaves ~2.5 minutes per item. Complex word problems demand quick translation of text into equations.
- Skill Gaps: Many adults have not used high school-level math in years, leading to rustiness in fractions, exponents, slopes, or data interpretation.
Comparison to Other Tests
- RLA (150 min, ~75% pass): Heavy reading/writing but allows process-of-elimination on multiple-choice.
- Science (90 min, ~80% pass): Graph/chart interpretation with familiar concepts.
- Social Studies (70 min, ~80% pass): Short passages, maps, and civics knowledge.
Tips to Pass Math
- Practice Daily: Use GED.com’s free practice tests or apps like Khan Academy for targeted algebra/geometry drills.
- Memorize Formulas: A provided sheet covers basics, but know when to apply them (e.g., quadratic formula, area of a circle).
- Master Word Problems: Break them into steps—underline numbers, identify unknowns, set up equations.
- Take Timed Mock Exams: Build stamina and pacing.
- Retake Strategically: You need 145/200 to pass; focus weakest topics between attempts.
While difficulty is subjective some struggle more with RLA’s extended response—the data and test structure confirm Mathematical Reasoning as the GED’s biggest hurdle. With 3–6 months of focused prep, most adults can pass on the first or second try.