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ACCUPLACER Advanced Algebra and Functions

Advanced Algebra and Functions, often called AAF, is the ACCUPLACER math test for students entering STEM fields and other fields that need some advanced math. It covers algebra, functions and some trigonometry.

What AAF measures

AAF covers linear equations, linear applications and graphs, factoring, quadratics, functions, radical and rational equations, polynomial equations, and exponential and logarithmic equations. It also includes geometry and trigonometry concepts.

Questions and time

TestQuestionsTime limit
ACCUPLACER AAF20None set

You cannot bring your own calculator. Some questions show a calculator on the screen, which can be a graphing calculator.

How to study AAF

  1. Practice factoring. Factor a quadratic, set each factor equal to zero, and solve.
  2. Get the base alone. In an equation like 4 · 3^x = 324, divide out the 4 first. Then find the power.
  3. Work inside out. For f(g(x)), find g(x) first, then put that answer into f.
  4. Factor before you cancel. In a fraction, you can only cancel factors that multiply, not terms that add.
  5. Check with a number. Plug in a simple value, like x = 0, to see if two forms match.

Sample questions

1. What are the solutions to 2x² + 7x + 3 = 0?

  1. A. x = 1/2 and x = 3
  2. B. x = -1/2 and x = -3
  3. C. x = -1 and x = -3
  4. D. (2x + 1)(x + 3)
Show the answer

Answer: B. The equation factors as (2x + 1)(x + 3) = 0. So 2x + 1 = 0 gives x = -1/2, and x + 3 = 0 gives x = -3. D is the factored form, not the solutions.

2. An exponential equation is given: 4 · 3^x = 324. What is the value of x?

  1. A. x ≈ 5.26
  2. B. x = 27
  3. C. x = 4
  4. D. x ≈ 1.43
Show the answer

Answer: C. Divide both sides by 4 to get 3^x = 81. Since 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 = 81, x = 4.

3. Two functions are given: f(x) = 3x + 1 and g(x) = x² - 5. What is the value of (f∘g)(4)?

  1. A. 34
  2. B. 164
  3. C. 143
  4. D. 33
Show the answer

Answer: A. Work inside out. g(4) = 16 - 5 = 11. Then f(11) = 3(11) + 1 = 34. Choice B does f first.

How SPARK helps with AAF

SPARK's diagnostic shows which algebra skills need work. Your study plan starts with those skills, and the AI tutor can walk you through any step you get stuck on.

FAQ

How many questions are on ACCUPLACER AAF?
ACCUPLACER Advanced Algebra and Functions has 20 questions.
What does ACCUPLACER AAF cover?
ACCUPLACER AAF covers linear equations and graphs, factoring, quadratics, functions, radical and rational equations, polynomial equations, and exponential and logarithmic equations, plus geometry and trigonometry concepts.
Can I use a calculator on ACCUPLACER AAF?
You cannot bring your own calculator. Some ACCUPLACER AAF questions show a calculator on the screen, which can be a basic, square root or graphing calculator.
Is ACCUPLACER AAF timed?
ACCUPLACER tests, including AAF, are generally untimed.

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