The GED (General Educational Development) test consists of four subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Social Studies, and Science. There is no universal "hardest" subject difficulty is subjective and depends on your background, strengths, and preparation. However, data from GED Testing Service and student surveys consistently point to Mathematical Reasoning as the most challenging for the majority of test-takers.
Why Math is Often the Hardest
- Pass Rates: In 2024, the national pass rate for Math was 72%, compared to 80% for RLA, 78% for Social Studies, and 76% for Science (GED Testing Service annual report).
- Content Depth: It covers algebra (35–40%), geometry (20–25%), quantitative problem-solving (25–30%), and basic number operations. Topics like quadratic equations, slope-intercept form, and data analysis trip up adults who haven't used math since high school.
- Time Pressure: 115 minutes for 46 questions, including calculator and non-calculator sections, requires quick recall and accuracy.
- Common Pain Points: Word problems, fractions/decimals, and graphing functions are frequent stumbling blocks.
Other Subjects' Challenges
- RLA (150 minutes): Demands strong reading comprehension, grammar, and a 45-minute essay. It's tough for non-native English speakers.
- Science (90 minutes): Heavy on interpreting charts, graphs, and experiments (life science 40%, physical science 40%, earth/space 20%).
- Social Studies (70 minutes): Involves history, civics, economics, and geography with document analysis.
Tips to Conquer the "Hardest" Subject
- Assess First: Take a GED Ready® practice test ($6.99 each) to identify weak areas.
- Targeted Study: Use free resources like GED.com flashcards, Khan Academy (math), or adult education classes. Focus 50% of study time on Math if it's your weak spot.
- Practice Daily: Solve 20–30 problems/day; master the TI-30XS calculator.
- Build Confidence: Join study groups or apps like GED Flash for peer support.
With 3–6 months of consistent prep (10–15 hours/week), most pass on the first try. Math may feel hardest, but it's conquerable thousands do it yearly!The GED (General Educational Development) test consists of four subjects: Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA), Social Studies, and Science. There is no universal "hardest" subject difficulty is subjective and depends on your background, strengths, and preparation. However, data from GED Testing Service and student surveys consistently point to Mathematical Reasoning as the most challenging for the majority of test-takers.
Why Math is Often the Hardest
- Pass Rates: In 2024, the national pass rate for Math was 72%, compared to 80% for RLA, 78% for Social Studies, and 76% for Science (GED Testing Service annual report).
- Content Depth: It covers algebra (35–40%), geometry (20–25%), quantitative problem-solving (25–30%), and basic number operations. Topics like quadratic equations, slope-intercept form, and data analysis trip up adults who haven't used math since high school.
- Time Pressure: 115 minutes for 46 questions, including calculator and non-calculator sections, requires quick recall and accuracy.
- Common Pain Points: Word problems, fractions/decimals, and graphing functions are frequent stumbling blocks.
Other Subjects' Challenges
- RLA (150 minutes): Demands strong reading comprehension, grammar, and a 45-minute essay. It's tough for non-native English speakers.
- Science (90 minutes): Heavy on interpreting charts, graphs, and experiments (life science 40%, physical science 40%, earth/space 20%).
- Social Studies (70 minutes): Involves history, civics, economics, and geography with document analysis.
Tips to Conquer the "Hardest" Subject
- Assess First: Take a GED Ready® practice test ($6.99 each) to identify weak areas.
- Targeted Study: Use free resources like GED.com flashcards, Khan Academy (math), or adult education classes. Focus 50% of study time on Math if it's your weak spot.
- Practice Daily: Solve 20–30 problems/day; master the TI-30XS calculator.
- Build Confidence: Join study groups or apps like GED Flash for peer support.
With 3–6 months of consistent prep (10–15 hours/week), most pass on the first try. Math may feel hardest, but it's conquerable thousands do it yearly!