How to Be Good at Mathematics

Mathematics

Do you struggle with math? If so, chances are you believe you are naturally bad and cannot excel at the subject. However, studies have shown that dedication plays a big part in being good at math, even more than a natural inclination toward the subject. 

Developing the right attitude, practicing, and seeking help have proven to be the best formula to be good at math. 

Cultivate the right attitude towards math

Once most people struggle with the subject, they self-sabotage by developing a bad attitude. Just because you are struggling does not mean you cannot be good at math. Ultimately, that lousy attitude manifests and ruins your relationship with the subject and students start searching “do my algebra” in internet. 

Instead of “I am bad at math. What’s the point?” you should tell yourself, “I am not bad. I am a work in progress. And with practice, I will soon be good enough.”

Yes, some people have a natural inclination for math. But studies have proven that with hard work, anyone can be good at math. 

So, you should take the subject seriously. You should not be okay with being bad at math. Instead, you should embrace and appreciate it. Math improves your reasoning. Additionally, being able to do math in your head will significantly enhance your day-to-day life. 

Practice

In all aspects of life, including math, practice makes perfect. To improve your understanding of a concept, you need to solve as many math problems as possible, until you can solve them without struggling. 

Schedule at least one hour a day to work on your IB past papers for instance or hire a GCSE maths tutor. Also, make sure the environment you choose for your practice sessions is distraction-free. It could be a booth at a quiet coffee shop or a desk in your bedroom. Consider disconnecting from the internet or switching off your phone. If music helps you concentrate, put slow instrumental music, instead of the very distracting loud music with lyrics. 

As you practice, focus on understanding the process and the logic behind solving a particular problem. Remember, math is sequential. The best way to improve your skills is understanding concepts, not memorizing. 

It also helps to work the problem one step at a time. That way, it becomes easier to see where you went wrong. 

Remember, you learn a lot from your mistakes. So, review your answers before and after submitting your tests or homework for marking. 

Get help

Ask your teacher for help. They may be willing to provide one-on-one tutoring on concepts you are not understanding. 

While your teacher might be willing help, they might not have enough time to tutor you, especially if you are struggling a lot. So, you might want to get extra help from classmates who excel in the subject, or even family members. 

When seeking a tutor, you want someone patient when explaining things. Your big brother might be a math genius, but not a good tutor due to his short temper. So, you might want to seek help from your neighbour who is extremely patient and understanding.

However, if you need a lot of one-on-one attention, you should hire a tutor. Tutors are experienced at teaching, and they are more available when you need them. The right tutor will help you understand concepts, and soon you will start improving.