Techniques of Mathematics Study

Student work includes attending classes, consulting with tutors in the case of any questions and conducting a lot of private studies off high school to grasp the course or subject. Despite school lessons, private learn about sessions seize huge bulk of a student’s time and require self-discipline and planning to ensure that one manages their time during the session effectively. They not solely give an individual the time to learn even more and grasp the course but additionally the ability to go through previously taught sessions. Mathematics is a path that is mandatory across all learning establishments globally and is perceived as one of the most demanding and toughest to accomplish. This paper seeks to critically analyze effective study techniques concerning mathematics as a course of study and how students could implement these strategies to ensure a long lasting impact in their education.

It is important to note that every individual practice different methods of studying and there is no right way to study for a math class. However, through careful consideration and implementation of some of the techniques discussed below one raises their ability and comprehension capacity towards efficiently grasping the subject and understanding it much better.

Approach through Understanding the principles

Unlike other theoretical courses such as history which are understood through simple memorization and continuous study, mathematics is a subject which has topics based on principles. Algebra, trigonometry, calculus and statistics are all topics with underlining principals that dictate the use of the set formulas. Formulas can be memorized, however, determining when and how to use them requires a person to grasp the question asked and how it relates to set principles of mathematics. Memorizing does not necessarily mean that an individual understands how to use the formula. While some formulas are straightforward, others have restrictions on them that require a person to know before applying them effectively (Nolting). For example, the use of a quadratic formula requires having the quadratic in standard form first. The only way to remember this is through critically comprehending the principle or the whole approach to the question is going to be wrong. In other topics such as calculus although having straightforward formulas, they require one to identify the parts in the problem that correspond to the formula. Without understanding how to use the formula identifying the appropriate parts of the integral becomes impossible even if a person can memorize the formula.

Cumulative Approach towards the Subject

Most individuals who fail or hate mathematics as a subject usually make one common mistake, and that is interpreting the course as a non-progressive subject. Although it has different topics, a person should be able to identify the interrelationship of these topics. Each subject cumulates to the other and progresses on and on. Everything new that is learned depends on the previous teachings. A good example is the subject of algebra which is found across all levels of study across to tertiary levels. Without the knowledge of high school algebra, it becomes hard to undertake college algebra or even trigonometry classes (Aufmann and Lockwood). With this in mind, the approach of the study, therefore, dictates that a student should be able to comprehend the foundations and basic principles before advancing to the next level.

Time Management

Mathematics requires one master solving problems in speed while the same time sticking to the accuracy and concept of the subject, therefore, learning to work by the clock while solving mathematics problems is a very practical approach that most students should appoint. Mathematical exams require a mind that is poised and speedy enough to complete standardized tests and pass. Time is a principle used to test the subject and the student’s mental capacity to solve complicated questions while meeting the threshold required. Hence, one should be able to manage their time given while conducting every possible mathematical problem and transmit the answer with a nuance of bravado and quality. Each study session ought to teach a student on analyzing the problem or set question, a plan on how to attack the questions while at the same time leaving enough time to countercheck the answers and calculation process before handing over the exam.

Problem Solving

The whole fundamental concept of mathematics is to solve problems hence it requires an in-depth understanding and comprehension of the different set problems and how to tackle them. With regards to math problem-solving principles, there are set guides which allow this technique become so efficient towards grasping the concept and passing exams. It includes:

Understanding the Problem

A mathematician should analyze a problem by looking at some variables. The information given is the first approach. This allows a person to search then the information that is needed thus enabling an individual to know the type of problem that exists. Mathematical questions are set in an abstract manner that requires further analysis by the mind to develop the problem and put it in one’s understanding (Posamentier and Krulik).

Devise a Plan

Once the problem is understood and depicted in an individual’s mind the next phase is to figure the approach needed to solve the problem. There are numerous mathematical formulas but only one or two are required to solve the equation, and this requires the ability to deduct certain pieces of information before arriving at the solution. All the tools and applications required such as graphing and drawing diagrams need to be sorted out and identified in detail on how they relate to the question and arrive at the solution.

Carrying out the Plan

The equation cannot solve itself without implementing the identified plan. Carrying out the Plan requires an accurate and complete understanding of different variables and how they relate to each other subsequently applying the strategy in succession and arriving at the solution. Reaching the solution is the target, and once the plan is unable to do so, one has to develop a new scheme to come up with a better solution.

Reviewing

Mathematics requires accuracy, precision, and careful implementation to ensure that every aspect of the problem-solving process is flowing till the end. One mistake will lead to a wrong solution. Reviewing of the process confirms if the approach taken was effective and efficient and whether other advances could be developed while dealing with similar questions.

The above doctrines allow for an efficient study technique through which a mathematician might apply to establish a more effective process towards problem-solving and studying process. These methods are complementary and require complete integration with other support structures such as supplementary materials, consultations, continuous practice and other assignments to influence an effective study strategy for mathematicians.





















Work Cited

Aufmann, Richard, and Joanne Lockwood. Basic College Mathematics: An Applied Approach. 9th ed. Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning, 2010. Print.

Nolting, Paul. Math Study Skills Workbook. 4th ed. London, UK: Cengage Learning, 2011. Print.

Posamentier, Alfred, and Stephen Krulik. Problem-Solving Strategies In Mathematics: From Common Approaches To Exemplary Strategies. 1st ed. London, UK: World Scientific Publishing, 2015. Print.