How to Study Math Better:
Effective and Fun Tips for Students
See also: Mental Arithmetic
Mathematics. When hearing maths mentioned, all those jokes emphasizing its difficulty, as well as some dread, probably come to mind. But mathematics need not be as scary and difficult as some students expect. In fact, once you start loving maths, there’s no turning back. You won’t stop complimenting the subject.
Mathematics is considered to be a scoring subject. Unlike other subjects, you don’t need to mug up big paragraphs in mathematics; you just have to understand some concepts and apply them to the problem at hand.
Developing an understanding of mathematics will help you to sharpen your mind, stay focused, and makes calculations easy. One of the major reasons why students find maths difficult is that students don’t understand maths properly. Factors like a lack of visualization, lack of interest, or unclear concepts lead to students feeling it is a difficult subject.
This article will give you some tips and tricks for acing maths like a pro! By following these techniques, your previous fear of mathematics may just vanish, and you might even start loving the subject.
Study maths better: Effective & Fun Tips for Students
Practice
You might have heard the idiom “Practice makes perfect”. Mathematics is all about practice and logical analysis. As you all know, mugging up doesn’t work in maths. You should understand and visualize the concepts and theorems included. The questions you solve in class won’t be the same as in your exams. Each and every problem is different. A single problem in maths can be solved by different strategies. It all depends on individual thinking.
Thus, the only way to be able to solve any problem on a particular topic is to practice solving various different problems on that topic. Practicing won’t only make you better in maths, but you will even start seeing maths as the most interesting and easiest subject.
Also, when you study for subjects that require a large amount of learning, you can do some math practice in between for a change. I used to do this. When the mugging up gets too overwhelming, just put on your favorite music and start solving maths problems. This is one of the major reasons I love mathematics.
Begin by practicing some sample questions
You might be developing the motivation to do some maths. However, it is not recommended that you start with complex problems. Trying to solve complex problems when you have only just learnt and understood the basic concepts might not be a good idea.
The reason is that if you are unable to solve a problem, you will probably think that you aren’t able to solve any other problems, even if you understand the concepts, and you will end up feeling discouraged. This can even increase your fear of maths. Rather than starting with a hard question, go with a simple one to start. First, try solving all the examples in your textbook. The questions will be decent, and the difficulty level will increase subtly, making it easier for you to improve your ability and understanding slowly. However tempting it may be, don’t look for the solutions before solving a problem. You can even refer to some of the helpful math resources online.
Clear any doubts beforehand
When learning anything, developing doubts is common. At times you may become stuck and feel unable to solve a problem. Don’t just give up because you cannot find the solution. Also, don’t put your doubts on hold for too long. Try to resolve them as soon as possible. The earlier you can clear up any doubts, the earlier you will improve in those subjects. If you get stuck at some point, get help from your teacher or friends, or seek a solution or explanation online.
Keep a separate book and a formula chart
This is a common practice. Maintain a separate book for maths so that it is easy for you to find where you left off. While studying, jot down all the formulas you feel are important and make a chart. This will be a very helpful reference book for you to go through before any exam or test.
When something comes into your sight, it becomes unconsciously registered in your memory. This is the reason why many people prefer using diagrams or formulas in their study areas. Stick flash cards containing the formulas and important points around your study area so that they stay within sight and you can take a look at them from time to time.
Comprehend the derivation
You may feel that the derivation doesn’t have any importance from an exam point of view, but that’s not the case. The derivation of a theorem or formula is crucial for a better understanding of the topic. You don’t have to learn the entire derivation, you just need to understand it sufficiently to know where and why that particular concept is used. Understanding the derivation helps you know the logic and thus prepares you to use the concept efficiently. If you just mug up the derivation or theorem, you may not be able to recall it perfectly in your exams, but if your concepts are clear, they will be easier to remember.
Have a strong grip on the basics
A strong foundation plays a vital role in making maths much easier and more interesting. Most of the topics in mathematics are a continuation or advancement of the previous ones. That’s why JEE classes from 8 to 10 are called foundation courses.
Make daily goals
Not all days are the same. In the beginning, you might practice regularly with dedication, but at some point, you will start postponing your work. To avoid this, it is suggested you set daily goals and follow them regularly. In this way, you would be well prepared for your exams.
Further Reading from Skills You Need
The Skills You Need Guide to Numeracy
This four-part guide takes you through the basics of numeracy from arithmetic to algebra, with stops in between at fractions, decimals, geometry and statistics.
Whether you want to brush up on your basics, or help your children with their learning, this is the book for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maths
Why do people feel maths is a difficult subject?
Math is all about visualization and self-analysis. To solve a problem in mathematics, one needs to picture it properly. Another reason can be a lack of interest or teaching maths in an improper way.
Can I learn mathematics at the age of 50?
Education has no age limits. In fact, anyone who is determined, irrespective of his/her age, can learn and even do great in maths.
Conclusion
If a proper approach is followed, there’s no other subject as exciting and fun as maths. Mathematics is all about understanding the concepts and applying them in your way. By implementing these techniques, you will be able to see what previously might have been your weak subject turn into your strength.
About the Author
Aloukik Rathore is a Delhi-based entrepreneur, blogger, digital marketer, and co-founder of Cannibals Media, a modern-day digital marketing company. He started blogging at the tender age of 16 and has been in the digital marketing industry ever since. He specializes in content marketing strategies, link building, and off-page SEO.