Essential Topics for Success in the HESI A2 Math Portion

The HESI A2 math portion is critical to the Health Education Systems, Inc. Admission Assessment. This section evaluates your mathematical skills, which are vital for success in nursing programs. By mastering key concepts, you can enhance your performance and build the confidence needed to excel. Let’s explore the six fundamental areas of the HESI A2 math portion that you must understand to ensure your success on this challenging exam.

1. Fractions

Fractions represent a portion of a whole, comprising numerators and denominators. For example, 12\frac{1}{2}21​ signifies one part of two equal parts. It’s essential to note that the denominator cannot be zero.

Fractions can be categorized as equivalent, like, or unlike and can be expressed as mixed or improper fractions. Understanding how to manipulate these numbers is crucial since they are frequently used in calculations.

Understanding Fractions with Number Lines
A number line can help you grasp various aspects of fractions, including their values and conversions. For instance, position the following numbers from smallest to largest: 14,12,24,42,0.3,124\frac{1}{4}, \frac{1}{2}, \frac{2}{4}, \frac{4}{2}, 0.3, 1 \frac{2}{4}41​,21​,42​,24​,0.3,142​.

From this example, we observe that:

• 14\frac{1}{4}41​ is less than 0.3.
• 12\frac{1}{2}21​ and 24\frac{2}{4}42​ are equivalent.
• 1241 \frac{2}{4}142​ is a mixed fraction with a value greater than 1, expressed as 64\frac{6}{4}46​ or 1.51.51.5.

Operations with Fractions

• Addition and Subtraction: To add or subtract fractions with like denominators, keep the denominator constant and add or subtract the numerators. For unlike fractions, convert them to equivalent fractions with a common denominator.
• Multiplication and Division: For multiplication, simply multiply the numerators and denominators directly. For division, flip the second fraction (the divisor) and then multiply.

2. HESI A2 Decimals

Decimals, similar to fractions, represent parts of a whole but are expressed differently. For example, in 1.5, the integer part is 1, and the decimal part is 0.5, equivalent to 12\frac{1}{2}21​.

Understanding Decimal Places
Each digit in a decimal has a position based on powers of 10. In the number 53.264:

• Tens: 5
• Ones: 3
• Tenths: 2
• Hundredths: 6
• Thousandths: 4

Converting Between Decimals and Fractions
To convert a decimal to a fraction, separate the integer and decimal parts, then find a common denominator. For instance, converting 1.25 to a fraction involves rewriting it as 1+210+51001 + \frac{2}{10} + \frac{5}{100}1+102​+1005​ and then simplifying.

Conversely, if you need to convert a fraction to a decimal, multiply the numerator and denominator to make the denominator a power of 10.

3. Ratios

A ratio expresses the relationship between two quantities, indicating how many times one value contains another. It can be written as a:ba:ba:b or “a to b.”

Simplifying Ratios
For example, if Samuel has 20 pencils and Maria has 10, the ratio simplifies to 2:1 by dividing both quantities by 10. If the quantities have different units, convert them to the same unit before comparison.

In cases where you know the ratio but not the individual quantities, set up proportions. For instance, if Jordan received 24 roses in a ratio of 3:1 (pink to yellow), you can determine she received 18 pink and 6 yellow roses.

4. Percentages

A percentage represents a ratio with 100 as the denominator. For example, 40% translates to 40100\frac{40}{100}10040​.

Using Percentages in Proportions
Percentages can also be applied in proportions. For example, if HPV is contracted at a rate of 42.5% among a population of 40,000, you can find the expected number of cases by solving 42.5100=x40000\frac{42.5}{100} = \frac{x}{40000}10042.5​=40000x​, resulting in 17,000 individuals.

5. Basic Algebra

HESI A2 Math Algebra involves using letters to represent unknown quantities in equations. The fundamental principle is balancing both sides of an equation.

Algebraic Laws

• Addition Law: Adding the same number to both sides maintains equality.
• Multiplication Law: Multiplying both sides by the same number also preserves equality.

To solve equations, isolate the variable on one side. For example, if the equation is 3(x−5)=33(x-5) = 33(x−5)=3, substituting possible answers can help find the correct variable.

6. Metric System

The metric system standardizes measurements of length, weight, volume, and temperature. Key units include meters for length, grams for weight, liters for volume, and Celsius for temperature.

Understanding how to convert units within the metric system is crucial. For instance, converting 13.86 grams to kilograms involves recognizing that 1 kg=1000 g1 \text{ kg} = 1000 \text{ g}1 kg=1000 g, so 13.86 g equals 0.01386 kg.

Additionally, converting between the U.S. Standard and metric systems is necessary. For example, to convert 45 kilometers to miles, knowing that 1 km=0.621 miles1 \text{ km} = 0.621 \text{ miles}1 km=0.621 miles allows you to calculate that 45 km equals approximately 27.945 miles.

Pass the HESI A2 Math Portion

Mastering the essential topics of the HESI A2 math portion is vital for your success on this exam. By familiarizing yourself with fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages, basic algebra, and the metric system, you can improve your confidence and ability to tackle complex mathematical problems. With diligent practice and a thorough understanding of these concepts, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the HESI A2 math portion and achieve your nursing career aspirations. Nursing Elites boasts as the ultimate guide to acing the HESI A2 math. interact with our HESI A2 actual questions to better tackle the test. Interact with our vast library to have an upper hand on the exam.