Praxis 5165 Math Digital Study Guide

The Praxis 5165 (Mathematics) exam is designed to measure the knowledge and competencies important for safe and effective beginning practice as a secondary school mathematics teacher. It assesses advanced high school–level mathematics content as well as the ability to apply mathematical reasoning in instructional contexts.

The exam evaluates both deep conceptual understanding and procedural fluency across major mathematics domains typically taught at the secondary level.

The Praxis 5165 is organized into four main content categories:

• Number & Quantity and Algebra (30%)
  Includes real and complex numbers, algebraic expressions, equations and inequalities, polynomial and rational expressions, and abstract algebraic reasoning.
• Functions and Calculus (30%)
  Covers function representations and transformations, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, limits, derivatives, and foundational calculus concepts.
• Geometry (20%)
  Includes coordinate geometry, geometric transformations, proofs, properties of shapes, and spatial reasoning.
• Statistics & Probability (20%)
  Covers data interpretation, probability models, statistical measures, distributions, and inferential reasoning.

Approximately 25% of the questions assess mathematics applied to Tasks of Teaching Mathematics, requiring application of content knowledge to instructional scenarios.

The Praxis 5165 includes:

• 66 selected-response questions
• 180 minutes (3 hours) of testing time
• Computer-delivered format

An on-screen graphing calculator is provided. It is built into the computer-delivered testing system—you may not bring your own calculator.

Because the calculator interface may feel different from a handheld model, you are strongly encouraged to practice using the official version before test day. You can access the practice calculator here.

Most states require a scaled score between 150 and 160, but requirements differ depending on your state’s certification standards. Praxis scores are reported as scaled scores. A scaled score adjusts for slight differences in difficulty between test versions, ensuring fairness across administrations. Because of this scaling process, the number of questions you answer correctly does not directly equal your final reported score.

Always check your state’s Department of Education website to confirm the exact passing score you need. You can access information on passing scores by state on the ETS website.