Imagine this: you’re at the kitchen counter, with your math book and pencil open. Your face is filled with confusion. The numbers appear to be dancing around the page, as if mocking you. You’ve been there. We’ve all done it. But what if you were told that math homework and remembering grade 5 don’t need to be a burden? Let’s look at some tricks and tips to turn those math nightmares into successes.
Let’s first talk about your mindset. You’ve probably heard that “whether you think you can do it or you don’t think you can”, you’re always right. It’s true! A positive approach to math can be a game changer. Saying “I haven’t figured out how to do it yet” instead of “I cannot do this” can make a huge difference. A small shift in perspective is all it takes to make a big difference.
Now, let’s tackle distractions. In this age, our phones buzz with notifications every few minutes. It’s impossible to do algebra while juggling torches. Put your phone in Do Not Disturb Mode or place it in a different room. Create a quiet area where you can do your homework.
Then, we’ll break down problems. Imagine trying to eat a whole pizza in just one bite. It’s the same with math problems. One step at a tim. You can write down the parts of the problem, and then solve them bit by bit. Slice by slice, you will have solved the problem before you know it.
Resources are important! Remember when we were solely reliant on textbooks and our teachers? Those days have long passed. YouTube tutorials, educational applications, and websites such as Khan Academy are now at our fingertips. You can find a video to help you with any concept.
You can teach others what you know. It is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your understanding. It’s a great way to reinforce your understanding. You can even pretend to explain it a friend in your head (no judgement here). You’ll need to be able to communicate concepts clearly.
Study groups, if you have them, can be a goldmine for learning. Get together with classmates who struggle to complete their homework. Work on the problem together. You may be able to get that “aha!” feeling by hearing someone else’s approach.
Another tip: treat yourself. You can reward yourself for a job well done. A piece of chocolate or five minutes on Facebook will do. Positive reinforcement works not only on pets, but also on humans.
Unchecked math anxiety can be paralyzing. Before starting homework, try deep breathing exercises and short meditation sessions to calm down your nerves. Stressed out minds cannot handle difficult math equations.
Practice is important! As with playing an instrumental or sports, math requires regular practice in order to improve. Even if you only have 15 minutes to spare each day, set aside some time every day to practice and perfect your math skills.
You’re human, so mistakes happen. These mistakes are part of the learning process (and in life). Consider mistakes as an opportunity for growth, rather than being frustrated. Every mistake you make brings you closer to mastering a material.
Last but not least: Ask questions! Always ask for clarifications on anything that is confusing, whether in class or outside of school hours through email or online forums. Teachers are impressed by students who take initiative and show curiosity in their learning process.
The next time you are faced with a daunting math assignment, keep these tips in mind. You might be surprised at how quickly they can turn your struggles into successes!
Do you have any stories of your own about how you overcame math difficulties? Please share your stories below. We love hearing from math warriors.