What can I do to become better at math?

Question

I am fairly smart, I have the highest grade in science and health, and am at the top of the class in everything else, I'm just always getting B's in math. Now, I don't want to see modest, but I'm sure there are other ppl out there who consider a B bad, especially when you get A's in everything else. I currently take Integrated Mathematics III and am in 10th grade. It is sorta a combination between algebra and geometry. My question is: What can I do to become better in math?

Answer 1

Some people have trouble in math because they treat it as other classes. The best way to be good at math is *not* to study and do repeated practice problems. There are virtually an infinite number of formulas, however much you study you will not be able to learn all you need.

The trick in math is to study to understand, not just to get answers. Trig is a good example. How many formulas do you have to memorize to be sure you know the right one to solve a problem? And then, how do you know which of those hundreds of formulae to use? The "right" approach (that is, the one used by people who are really good in math) is to understand the concepts and derive what they need from them. All trig formulae can be derived in seconds from just a basic knowledge of the right triangle, if you are very familiar with the concept and comfortable working with it.

Doing problems is very important, but the point in doing them is not to get the homework answer but to understand the underlying math issues.

One problem is that many math teachers are themselves not really good and enthusiastic about math. They teach the way they understand it, which is "cookbook math", and not the type of thing to inspire either interest or understanding in anyone else. Math is fun - once you relax and see it as a challenge rather than a threat it goes much easier.

And, here is a more concrete suggestion. When you learn something in math you go through a few stages. First you are introduced to something new, then you learn how to work with it, then you use it as a tool to learn the next thing. You are tested on it after the second stage, when you have just finished learning to work with it. At this stage you still have not had time to absorb the concept. After the next stage, when you have used it as a tool to work on the next concept, you usually will have a much better grasp of it.

So, the suggestion is study a chapter ahead of the class. This way when something is introduced to the class you will already have studied it, so the teacher's explanations will make more sense. And on tests, you will already have used the concepts as a tool in the section you are currently working on, so you will find it much easier and faster than others who are moving with the class.

Answer 2

If you don't want to study all the time (and really who does?), I suggest instead to get to the root of understanding.

With Algebra this means understanding the concept of = as a balance rather than "and the answer is". I used to tutor unversity students and they struggled at algebra becuase they didn't use that concept.

Most other things in algebra can fall out of that. I'm not sure what your learning at the 10th grade level (Integrated Mathematics III) but just a good understanding of the underlying concepts make ANY mathematics easier.

Geometry is closer to calculus (conic sections etc) but can still be understood when you look at the ideas behind it. I assume your looking at sections, volumes and stuff like that. If you understand where the equations come from, i.e. through calulus, you'll have a better chance of solving them.

Hope that helps.

Answer 3

You must be excellent at math already, otherwise you wouldn't be in the top rankings of your classes consistently. Is there one specific area you are struggling in?

If not, by saying, "I always get B's in math", perhaps you are inadvertently placing a subconscious block in your mind for math. You clearly say, "I am...smart", "am at the top of the class", so you must have high self esteem as well.

I'd visualize yourself (as lame as it sounds) getting an A in your math class. Take an extra 15 minutes a day to review the more difficult areas. Ask questions about material to the teacher or to someone who is getting A's already.

I guarantee you will get an A. I KNOW you can get an A. There is no reason why you won't get an A. You already have the talent and the intelligence--make it happen.

I know you can, and so does everyone else.

Good luck!

Mysstere.

Answer 4

Take notes and practice. Studying doesn't hurt either. I was in the same rut as you are in. I was always afraid to ask questions because I thought my teacher would think that I was stupid. This was wrong. If you have a problem ask questions. NEVER get tired of asking questions. Ask queastions until you turn blue in the face and understand every aspect of the subject. then you should do fine.

to get that grade up, remember to do every extra credit thing that comes your way, every little bit helps!

Answer 5

Well there's no 2 way of getting better in maths other then
Practice
Practice
Practice
Espcially in algebra where you have to be really flexible when it comes to sloving tricky questions.

Answer 6

just study all of the notes a couple of times of which you don't understand, and also remember to do your homework. it isn't punishment, it is practice work to develop skills. try to get extra practice, maybe do more homework that you can assign yourself. or maybe even go to like after school tutoring, if you don't understand the notes in class, then ask questions. questions are the key to learning whatever you want to.

Answer 7

Stick around with those who have straight A in maths! You help them in other courses and you get help in maths; if you're willing to work hard, you can improve your grades.

Answer 8

1. Practice
2. If in doubt, ask someone for help
3. Back to step 1

Answer 9

try solving more sums in the topic you lack...
since maths is a practical subject, its better 2 do more n more problems

Answer 10

You can study harder or even go up to your teacher and ask him how you can raise your grade like if there's any thing you can do.