Mathematics is one subject that you cannot avoid. Some love it and some loathe it. The truth is, the importance of mathematics cannot be any greater in this tech-savvy world we live in. Mathematics forms the basis of future technological advancement.
The problem that many students have is that they do not know how to approach maths problem solving to get good results. No matter how much time you spend studying for your math paper, if you cannot solve the problem on the day of the test, you are lost. Thankfully, five math problem-solving techniques can make your work way easier.
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1. Create time and a peaceful environment to study
Maths is a complex subject that requires your utmost concentration. Avoid the temptation to multi-task or studying in a distracting environment.
Some common distractions may include housework, assignments, television, food, your phone, etc. Where you have lots of assignments such as essay writing right before a math test, you can hire personal statement writer. The expert writers have great skills and they help you to prepare your essays as you set time apart to study for your maths test.
You can also create a peaceful ambiance for studying by finding a quiet space to study or applying other techniques that resonate with you. Some studies show that listening to slow and soothing music while studying can improve your concentration. Try adding such music to your playlist and find a distraction-free space to study.
2. Practice, practice and more practice!
There are many ways to learn maths skills. You can learn math problem-solving skills in school, with the help of a tutor or use apps to improve maths skills. However, without practice, it is impossible to learn how to tackle a maths problem.
Practice makes perfect and helps you to do maths tasks accurately. Use your spare time to practice simple math problems and exercises. Your maths problem-solving skills will develop in time.
The more you practice answering maths problems, the more confidence you build. Most students cannot do maths accurately because of a lack of confidence.
3. Review your work and identify errors
If you get a wrong answer while practicing, do not give up. Review your workings and identify where you've made errors. Understanding where you went wrong will help you sharpen your skills and avoid similar mistakes. Apply different solutions until you find the right answer.
Where further clarification is needed, don't be shy to consult with your peers and teachers. Consulting opens up opportunities for learning new concepts and ideas to approach a similar problem. You will get to explore many techniques for solving the maths problem until you arrive at the right one.
4. Understand the logic behind key concepts
Learning maths skills is a sequential process. Learn one basic concept then move to a more complex concept with time. If you understand how a formula came about, you will be in a better position to apply it while solving maths problems.
It is futile to memorize the processes and formulae. It is better to understand the logic behind the process. This will help you understand how to approach similar problems.
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5. Apportion adequate time for each problem
One of the most common complaints from students when sitting for an exam is that they ran out of time. Math is a complex subject with complicated problems that require understanding before a solution could be reached. It is up to the student to figure out techniques to solve the problems more quickly.
When sitting for your math test, the first step is reading the math problem carefully from the beginning to the end. Underline the important numbers and facts as you read. As you are reading, your brain is taking in all the facts and developing the blueprint of the solution.
Your subconscious will help in processing prior knowledge and choosing those formulae and processes that are more applicable to the problem at hand. You will recall similar techniques and theorems that could help you solve the problem.
After this process, you should be able to translate all the data into equations. Think of any formula or procedure that could help shorten the solution. Make sure that the formula or procedure applies to the problem at hand. Put down all your workings in a simplified and logical format.
The last step is to go through your work and confirm if your answer fits. Do not declare that you are done simply because you got an answer. Only submit the paper if you understand the answer you got.
Conclusion
Once you get good at it, you will not have to think about the above steps when solving math problems. The steps will come naturally to you. Try as much as possible to apply mathematical techniques in solving real-world problems. Looking for practical ideas can help you disassociate math with complexity and make it a more fun concept to you.
Applying maths to real-world problems will also increase your interest and understanding. Parents should also help in fostering positive attitudes about maths to students as much as possible. They can find mentors for their kids where they cannot answer questions.
Author Bio:
Connie Elser is a competitive exam tutor who specializes in maths, reasoning and English. Her teaching methodology and innovative approach to tackle entrance exams has helped numerous students make it to a university of their choice. In her free time, she works on her education blog, writes poems, and goes to the gym.
