ASVAB Classes

Overview of ASVAB Math and English Standards

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a comprehensive test used to assess a candidate’s skills in various academic and technical subjects. Two key components of the ASVAB focus on Mathematics and English:

  • The Mathematics section evaluates a candidate’s ability to solve problems using arithmetic reasoning, algebra, geometry, and basic mathematical concepts. It is divided into Mathematics Knowledge (MK), which tests knowledge of formulas and procedures, and Arithmetic Reasoning (AR), which measures the ability to solve word problems and apply mathematical logic to real-world scenarios.

  • The English section assesses language proficiency through Word Knowledge (WK) and Paragraph Comprehension (PC). The Word Knowledge portion evaluates vocabulary skills, including synonyms, antonyms, and word relationships, while the Paragraph Comprehension section measures reading comprehension, critical thinking, and the ability to analyze written information.

Mastering these subjects is essential for achieving a high ASVAB score and unlocking greater opportunities in military career paths. The following sections outline the specific standards covered in both Mathematics and English to help candidates prepare effectively.

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) measures aptitude in various areas, including mathematics. The math portion consists of two main sections: Mathematics Knowledge (MK) and Arithmetic Reasoning (AR). Below is a breakdown of the math standards covered in each section:

1. Mathematics Knowledge (MK)

This section tests knowledge of high school-level mathematics concepts. Key standards include:

Number and Operations:

  • Basic operations with integers, fractions, and decimals

  • Ratios, proportions, and percentages

  • Prime factorization, greatest common factor (GCF), and least common multiple (LCM)

  • Properties of numbers (e.g., commutative, associative, distributive)

Algebra:

  • Simplifying expressions

  • Solving linear equations and inequalities

  • Understanding variables, constants, and coefficients

  • Working with polynomials and factoring

  • Solving quadratic equations

  • Working with algebraic fractions

Geometry:

  • Basic properties of angles, lines, and triangles

  • Area, perimeter, and volume calculations

  • Properties of circles, including circumference and area

  • Pythagorean theorem and right triangles

  • Coordinate geometry (e.g., slope, distance, and midpoint)

Statistics and Probability:

  • Mean, median, mode, and range

  • Basic probability concepts

  • Simple data interpretation (e.g., graphs and charts)

2. Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)

This section focuses on applying mathematical reasoning to solve word problems. Key standards include:

Problem Solving and Reasoning:

  • Translating verbal statements into mathematical expressions

  • Solving multi-step word problems

  • Identifying relevant vs. irrelevant information

Number and Operations:

  • Solving problems involving whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages

  • Ratio and proportion problems

  • Calculating averages and rates

  • Using unit conversions (e.g., inches to feet, pounds to ounces)

Time, Distance, and Rate:

  • Solving problems involving speed, time, and distance

  • Understanding and applying formulas for rate problems

Money and Financial Literacy:

  • Solving problems involving discounts, interest, and markups

  • Budgeting and basic financial calculations

Estimation and Rounding:

  • Estimating solutions for approximate calculations

  • Rounding numbers for quick computations

ASVAB English Standards

The ASVAB includes two English-related sections:

  1. Word Knowledge (WK) – Tests vocabulary and word meanings.

  2. Paragraph Comprehension (PC) – Assesses reading comprehension and the ability to extract meaning from written passages.

1. Word Knowledge (WK) Standards

This section evaluates your ability to understand words and their meanings, both in isolation and in context.

Vocabulary & Word Meaning

  • Recognizing synonyms and antonyms

  • Identifying words with multiple meanings

  • Understanding prefixes, suffixes, and root words

  • Determining word meaning through context clues

  • Identifying commonly confused words (e.g., affect vs. effect)

Word Relationships & Usage

  • Analogies (e.g., Hot is to cold as day is to ____?)

  • Recognizing parts of speech (noun, verb, adjective, adverb)

  • Using correct word forms in sentences

2. Paragraph Comprehension (PC) Standards

This section assesses your ability to read and understand written material.

Reading Skills & Comprehension

  • Identifying the main idea of a passage

  • Recognizing supporting details

  • Making inferences and drawing conclusions

  • Understanding the author's purpose and tone

  • Identifying cause-and-effect relationships

  • Recognizing fact vs. opinion

Critical Thinking & Text Analysis

  • Summarizing a passage

  • Identifying logical sequences and transitions

  • Recognizing implied meanings

  • Understanding figurative language (metaphors, similes)

Contact us.