PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 58: Answer and Explanation

Question: 58

If 12 - (t + 2)² = 3, which of the following could be the value of t?

• A. -9
• B. -5
• C. 5
• D. 7

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B

The question asks for a value of t. Since the question asks for a specific value and the answers contain numbers in increasing order, plug in the answers. Begin by labeling the answers as t and starting with (B), -5. The equation becomes 12 - (-5 + 2)² = 3 or 12 - (-3)² = 3. This becomes 12 - 9 = 3, which is true, so stop here. The correct answer is (B).