1. The test covers solving linear equations, writing equations from word problems, percentages, proportions, and using the distributive property. 2. For solving linear equations like $6 = \frac{a}{4} + 2$, isolate the variable by subtracting or adding terms and then multiply or divide to solve for the variable. 3. When writing equations from word problems, identify the unknown as a variable and translate the problem statement into an equation using operations described (e.g., "4 more than 3 times last week" becomes $4 + 3x$). 4. Percent problems often use the formula $$\text{part} = \text{percent} \times \text{whole}$$ or proportions like $$\frac{\text{part}}{\text{whole}} = \frac{\text{percent}}{100}$$. 5. To solve proportions, cross multiply and then divide to isolate the variable. 6. The distributive property states $$a(b + c) = ab + ac$$ and is used to simplify expressions. 7. Practice simplifying expressions by combining like terms and applying the distributive property. 8. Remember to convert percentages to decimals when multiplying (e.g., 25% = 0.25). 9. For word problems involving time or money, define variables clearly and write equations based on the relationships described. 10. Always check your solutions by substituting back into the original equation. Good luck on your test!