If you are struggling with Math don’t skip this article, as you’ll find life changing tips on how to understand mathematics
For most students, math may seem like a nightmare, but the truth is, it’s not as difficult as it seems. You might just be missing the key strategies needed to understand the subject and that’s where this article comes in.
If you really want to understand math and stop being that “average student,” you’ll need to read this article until the end. Before we go into these tips, I will be sharing my own story, I have been in your shoe I understand what it feels like not to understand mathematics.
In 2021, I applied to study Computer Science but I was offered Physics instead.My first year was wasn’t easy, and I struggled with the heavy math involved in Physics. In my first semester, I took three math courses alongside two Physics courses and all my grades came back as Ds.
When I later transferred to Computer Science, I retook some of those same courses. This time, however, I earned As and Bs in thesame mathematics course I took while in physics. What changed? I identified my weaknesses in math and worked on them.
Whether you’re in high school or at a higher institution, these tips will help you not just to survive your mathematics test and exams but truly understand mathematics.
Reason why Some Students struggle with Maths
Math struggles usually happens due to a few common issues. One reason is that math is a subject that builds on itself. If you miss an important concept especially the basics, it can be hard to understand the next one.
Again, another reason why people struggle with math is lack of practice, they wait until it’s time for test or exams before they begin to practice it. However In math, practice is key. Without it, you can easily forget even the little you know.
Sometimes, students also have that negative mindset that math it’s too difficult, If you believe math is too difficult or you’re not good at it, this mindset can make things worse. Get rid of that mindset and just be willing to learn and things will get different.
With all been said below are tips on how to understand Mathematics and pass your tests and exams
How To Study and Understand Mathematics
Get the Basics right
Math is like a ladder. You need to master the basics before moving on to more complex topics. If you are finding it difficult to advanced concepts, take a step back and review the fundamentals. Things like Simple arithmetic, BODMAS, PEMDAS, Change of subject of a formula, Fractions, indices, and basic algebra are the foundation of most math problems.
Most advanced topics in Mathematics will require you understand the basics mentioned, it’s not just mathematics if you are doing other courses like physics, chemistry which deal with calculations, this basics will help make things easier. You will often get lost when dealing with the complex maths if you don’t understand the basics.
When you understand the basics, solving more difficult problems becomes easier.
If you are looking to looking to learn the basics of mathematics, I’ll recommend the YouTube channel MATHANTICS to learn the basics of mathematics, this channel use a simple language to explain the basics concept of mathematics.
Practice Regularly
Mathematics is not a subject you can just read about and understand.
The saying “practice makes perfect” couldn’t be more true for the subject. The more you practice, the more familiar you’ll become with different types of problems. Dedicate time every day to practice, even if it’s just for 30 minutes. Working through a various questions helps reinforce the concepts in your mind.
You can find practice problems in your textbook, Past questions, or online. Try and solve as much questions as you can.
If you ever get stuck practicing, there’s various AI tools you can use to get the problem solved.
Photomath
Google Gemini and ChatGPT can explain complex problems in simple language, while Photomath helps by solving equations step by step.
Ask Questions
Never be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Whether it’s in class, in a study group, or online, seeking clarification can make all the difference. Teachers, friends, and even online math communities are there to help you. Sometimes, all it takes is hearing an explanation in a different way to understand somethings.
Use Online Resources
The internet is full of resources that can help you with math. Websites like Khan Academy, YouTube tutorials, and math forums provide step-by-step guides on various topics. These resources can help you if you’re stuck on a particular problem or concept.
Sometimes a video explanation or an interactive exercise can make things clearer than a textbook.
Work in Groups
Studying with others can be very helpful. Sometimes a classmate might explain something in a way that makes more sense to you. Group study also encourages discussion, and explaining concepts to others helps you solidify your own understanding.
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Attend Tutorials
If you are a student in a higher institution chances are there are some tutorials holding in various departments or faculty in your school, be sure to attend Tutorials as there is always something to learn there.
Try different tutorials groups and stick to the one that fits you or you understand better.
How to Prepare For Math Test and Exams
Understand the format of your test/exam, is it CBT or written? There’s different ways to prepare for the two scenarios. For CBT test the questions is mostly Obj and unlikely you’ll see questions that ask you to “Prove something”.
If you don’t understand the format of your test and exams ask your senior colleagues or use past questions.
Past questions are a great way to prepare for exams. They give you an idea of the type of questions to expect and the format of the exam. Try solving past exam papers under timed conditions to get a feel for the pressure you’ll face during the real exam.
The more familiar you are with past questions, the less intimidating your test will feel.
Conclusion
Understanding math isn’t impossible, and it’s definitely not something to fear. With the right mindset, consistent practice, and helpful resources, you can become great at math. Follow these tips, and you’ll find yourself not just passing your math tests and exams, but excelling at them.
We hope this articles help you in your journey of leaning and understanding mathematics. If you have any questions or help feel free to drop in the comments section below.
If you are comfortable with maths do not forget to share your own personal tips on the comment section below as it may help others.