If you’ve taken the SAT or even taken a practice test, then you probably know that at the beginning of each math section those friendly SAT folks include a Reference Information box with some handy formulas for your use.

Your initial reaction to this box might be, “Great! Less formulas for me to study! I can just look here if I need to use any of these formulas.” Ah, but don’t be fooled. It might not be in your best interest to rely on the presence of these formulas and forget about studying them. You might be pressed for time when taking the math section. Constantly flipping back and forth between the questions and the formula section will cost you precious time.