Why HESI A2 Math is a Make-or-Break Section

Math is one of the sections that most students fear on the HESI A2 exam.

The truth is: math is one of the easiest sections to improve quickly—but only if you practice strategically.

Many students fail because they:

• Skip practice and rely only on notes
• Don’t understand step-by-step problem-solving
• Waste time on low-yield topics

At Olivia Grace Study Notes, our approach focuses on real exam-style questions with clear, step-by-step solutions, helping students gain both speed and accuracy.

Key Math Topics on the HESI A2 Exam

The HESI A2 Math section typically includes:

1. Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages
   • Convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages
   • Solve percentage increase/decrease problems
2. Ratios and Proportions
   • Word problems requiring proportional reasoning
   • Example: If a medicine requires 2 mg per 5 kg, how much for 25 kg?
3. Basic Algebra
   • Solve for x in simple equations
   • Apply algebra in word problems
4. Conversions
   • Metric to standard, standard to metric
   • Weight, volume, and length
5. Word Problems
   • Multi-step problems combining several concepts
   • Focus on extracting information carefully

HESI A2 Math Practice Questions

Here are 5 example questions with step-by-step solutions to help you practice:

Question 1: Fractions

Problem: Simplify $\frac{3}{4} + \frac{5}{8}$43​+85​

Solution:

1. Find a common denominator: 8
2. Convert fractions: $\frac{3}{4} = \frac{6}{8}$43​=86​
3. Add: $\frac{6}{8} + \frac{5}{8} = \frac{11}{8}$86​+85​=811​
4. Convert to mixed number: $1 \frac{3}{8}$183​

Answer: $1 \frac{3}{8}$183​

Question 2: Percentages

Problem: A patient’s weight increased from 120 lbs to 138 lbs. What is the percent increase?

Solution:

1. Find the difference: $138 – 120 = 18$138−120=18
2. Divide by original weight: $18 ÷ 120 = 0.15$18÷120=0.15
3. Convert to percentage: $0.15 × 100 = 15\%$0.15×100=15%

Answer: 15%

Question 3: Ratios

Problem: The ratio of nurses to patients is 3:12. If there are 36 patients, how many nurses are needed?

Solution:

1. Set up proportion: $3/12 = x/36$3/12=x/36
2. Solve for x: $x = (3 × 36)/12 = 9$x=(3×36)/12=9

Answer: 9 nurses

Question 4: Conversions

Problem: Convert 5 liters to milliliters.

Solution:

1. Recall: 1 liter = 1000 milliliters
2. Multiply: 5 × 1000 = 5000 ml

Answer: 5000 ml

Question 5: Algebra

Problem: Solve for x: $2x + 5 = 17$2x+5=17

Solution:

1. Subtract 5: $2x = 12$2x=12
2. Divide by 2: $x = 6$x=6

Answer: 6

Tips to Improve Your HESI A2 Math Score

1. Practice Daily: Even 20–30 minutes per day improves speed and accuracy.
2. Use Step-by-Step Solutions: Don’t just memorize answers—understand the process.
3. Focus on High-Yield Topics: Fractions, ratios, word problems, and conversions appear most frequently.
4. Simulate Exam Conditions: Time yourself and avoid distractions.
5. Track Weak Areas: Identify the types of questions you consistently get wrong and focus on them.

How Olivia Grace Study Notes Helps You Master HESI A2 Math

Our HESI A2 Math Study Guide is designed to:

• Break down every question with step-by-step solutions
• Cover all high-yield topics tested on the exam
• Include practice sets that mirror real exam difficulty
• Build confidence and speed, so exam day feels manageable

With our guide, students often report faster improvement and the ability to tackle even tricky questions confidently.

Final Thoughts

The HESI A2 Math section is 100% conquerable with the right approach.

• Focus on high-yield topics
• Practice exam-style questions with step-by-step solutions
• Review mistakes carefully

And most importantly, use a structured study guide like Olivia Grace Study Notes, which ensures your study time is efficient, effective, and fully exam-focused.