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THIS article focuses on ways of improving your Mathematics (Maths) skills.
Note taking
Students often write down what they see the professor or instructor write down. Unfortunately, most professors and instructors do not write down every important concept they discuss.
Unless otherwise instructed, you should focus your note taking around key concepts and formulas that are discussed during class.
In your note taking, include any explanatory remarks made by the instructor.
These are often never written down by the instructor yet they are key to fully understanding the Maths principle or concept being discussed.
Take copious notes on formulas or concepts the instructor emphasises, as these are likely to show up in future quizzes and tests.
Again, if the instructor says something you do not understand, raise your hand and ask for clarification. We also recommend making a list within your notes of those concepts you are struggling with so you can go back to them later and get additional help.
Immediately after class, review your notes. Take a moment to make sure you understand everything you wrote down while the lecture is still fresh in your mind.
Homework is key to learning
Maths is one subject that usually requires homework. Maths homework is not intended to make life miserable. It is simply necessary if you want to develop good reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Most people do not understand Maths instantly, after an instructor’s lecture. To learn Maths, you must experience it.
You must work out mathematical problems and apply what you have learned.
Homework provides students with the opportunity to really learn how the subject works in theory and practice.
Homework is most effective when it is completed while the lecture is still fresh in your mind. While there is nothing wrong with waiting to complete your homework until later in the evening, sometimes, complete Maths assignments in between classes, during lunch or right after school while the concepts are still fresh in your mind.
One of the biggest problems students have when completing Maths homework is that they do not read the notes and/or text associated with the assignment or individual problems.
Many students will quickly attempt to solve a Maths problem and then give up when they cannot see how to do it. Reading all the instructions and notes prior to each assignment is necessary to complete homework problems.
When it comes to Maths homework, the answer is not always what the instructor is most interested in seeing. Most Maths instructors are more interested in how you arrive at your answer than the answer itself.
When completing your homework, always show your work. Present the steps you took to arrive at your answer in an organised, logical manner.
Many instructors will give partial credit for answers as long as you show your work. Alternatively, some Maths instructors will not give any credit for a written answer, if work is not included.
Our next guide will look at problem solving. — Wires
Online Reporter