How To Solve Mathematical Problems

Do you want to improve your understanding of math?

Mathematics is a subject that can prove beneficial in a range of careers and jobs.

No matter the career path one decides to take, mathematics apply to some extent. As a matter of fact, many university courses include a particular level of mathematics. The reason many students dislike math is that they do not know how to study or solve math problems.

So let’s address and fix that.

Mathematics is a subject that you can spend hours trying to study, but end up not understanding anything. This becomes a problem during an examination, due to the fact you are unable to solve math problems.

There are many workshops or classes you can take to improve your mathematical skills.

But to get you started, below are a few tips and techniques that will help you with the subject. These techniques will help you love mathematics even more:

Just like any other activity, you have to practice. For example, for any person to be good at riding bikes, rock climbing, skateboarding, and the more they must practice. Remember, mathematics is not a subject that you can simply sturdy through listening and reading; you have to solve actual math problems. The more you solve mathematical problems, the better you will be at it.

Math could easily be compared to a sport activity. When Math is in context of sports, you might need to consider a coach to guide you.

According to life coach Eiran Trethowan, “Math is just like a sporting game. You need a coach and tons of practice. An academic coach will help in working out strategies to help children and young adults achieve success, just like any other sports player. A coach can bring and develop a more structured approach to learning and schoolwork as well as to bring motivation while solving and working on mathematical problems.”

Different math problems have different characteristics, and this is why you should learn different ways you can tackle them. There is no escaping this reality, to do well in your exams, you have to solve a lot of math problems.

#2 - Review Your Errors

While solving maths problems, you should always work through the whole solution. If you made a mistake, review the problem and understand where you went wrong. Doing this will help you identify and work on your limitations.  This technique will help you approach math problems in a way that will make you stronger as well as avoiding the same mistakes. 

Do You Need Help with Your Math Problems? Chat to a Maths Method expert today.

#3 - Master The Key Concepts

When it comes to mathematics, NEVER try memorising the process.

It is much better and beneficial to you if you focus on understanding the logic and process involved in solving a problem. Doing this will help you understand how to approach such problems in future. 

NOTE: Mathematic is a sequential subject; therefore, it is wise to have a better understanding of key concepts used on a particular topic before moving to the next one or complex problems.

#4 - Understand Your Limitations

Often a person will get stuck trying to solve a particular part of a mathematics problem, which makes it difficult to go on the next stage. When this happens, many students will skip this question and move on. However, it is wise not to skip the question but spend time trying to understand the problems and how you can solve them. The moment you understand the initial problem; you can use the problem as a stepping stone to continue the rest of the problem. 

According to the memory experts at Mindset Mastery , “Even if you're not a mathematician or you simply don't find joy in math, this doesn’t have to be a problem because skills and limitations are what we derive from mathematics and not from the particular concepts itself. It's all about the mental programming of yourself and those around you to unlock patterns, words, and programs around you.”

Through using active imagination you will be able to help break free of the barriers of the past and will be able to use these difficulties in math to move forward.

NOTE: Mathematic needs time and patience to master. For this reason, it is wise to study with a friend who you can consult or come-up with ideas of solving complex math problems. 

#5 - A Distraction-Free Studying Environment

What many students fail to know is that mathematics is a subject that needs a distraction-free environment. That is because it plays a huge role when it comes to solving complex problems and equations in trigonometry, algebra, and geometry.

According to meditation experts at Mukti Freedom Yoga, “studying with music may help create a relaxing atmosphere, which can stimulate the flow of information easily. However, with this technique, you need the right kind of music, which will make you feel comfortable.” 

Taking time out to meditate will keep your mind active and clear. Simple breathing techniques will help organise the mind and keeping it free of clutter. The hardships of mathematical problems could be resolved through the movement of the spine by incorporating yoga exercises in classes or reviews.

#6 - Creating A Math Dictionary

Math is a subject that has specific vocabularies and terminologies. As such, it would be wise to create Flashcards or Notes that includes all definitions, terminologies, and concepts. It is always important to include the meaning, key points, and formulas that you can revise from time to time. 

#7 - Use Mathematics To Solve Real-World Issues

To become good at mathematics, you should always consider trying to solve real-world problems using math. Your aim is looking for practical applications, which will help you change your perspective of the subject.

Real world mathematics is a skill used by Sydney PPC expert Jaymes White who explains “in my role I have to understand math when applied to a business context. With so much at stake it’s vital I get my figures right. I recommend using the services of a professional like the Maths Methods team. The confidence, skills and help you get can shape your career. Just look at me!”

For another example, probability can be used in day to day to predict the chances of something happening and determining whether you want to take the risk; such as buying a lottery ticket (though this is easier said than done).

Final Thoughts

Confidence is important when tackling any math problem or when doing your exam.

Sometimes the problem is not knowing how to solve a mathematical problem, but simply do not have the confidence, which makes you second guess yourself.

Therefore, after studying and doing mathematical practices, always tackle mathematical problems with confidence and avoid second-guessing yourself.

Are you ready to become a master mathematician? Or are you looking to gain confidence before your next school exams?

Chat to the Maths Method team and start getting confident in your skills today.

Author Bio

Mary Paterson is an Australian writer and uni student living in Melbourne. As a Business Management major, Mary is passionate about business revenues. She also has a love for pets, she regularly takes her pet dog for a walk in the park.