Are some people just bad at Mathematics or is it a mental problem with me?

Question

I graduated from high school taking the minimal math required to graduate. It was very basic Mathematics and I was lucky to pass it. On the other hand, my Science classes were a total interest of mine and I recieved A's in the classes.
What is the deal. I am going to have to take math to get into Chemistry, and I am afraid I will not be able to pass the classes. It is so hard for me. I struggle and it is scaring me to enroll in college Math. Whats the deal and how do I get good grades? I feel totally stupid. Its embarrasing. Do other people struggle like this?

Answer 1

I've seen a lot of people coming in from high school to college and the majority do not have the skills to go into college math and must take remedials. MOST people have to take basic arithmetic or beginning algebra first. The good news is that those developmental classes really do work to bring you up to college level. Its like anything else, if you are interested in it then you will do better. Chemistry has about college algebra level work in it, physics is the worst as far as involving math, but you can do it if you really want to work.

Unfortunately, science and math are tied together in college and most science majors require a minimum of calculus. This means you better learn to like math. If you are willing to work at the math you can do it. The question is "is it worth it to you?". Don't be scared because you are in the same boat as everyone else in those classes. By the way most colleges won't let you get in over your head in math classes, you'll be tested and put where you belong.

Answer 2

yes i hated math and sci in high school. I took psych in college avoided sci and most math. later in life i developed a profecieny with numbers. U got A's in sci no way u have mental problem. Depends on school u may have to take some math i took statstics and aced it. Alot depends on teachers so ask around. Also some schools give u a certain number of classes that u can take pass/fail save those for required math claaes not to hurt ur gpa. Also work with prof teaching asst and since u can ace other subjects devote more time to math.

Also u can post homework problems here and get answers in math section. Also find the users good at math and add them as contacts so they get ur questions. Not a total math genius but feel free 2 contact me 4 help. good luck 2 u

Answer 3

don't feel stupid. Math does not come easy to many people. I too,loved and still do,all sciences. Chem,biology my very favorite. I had to take physics,algebra 1&2, & geometry in high school or I could not get into nursing school. I went back after school every day for physics and geometry because it was so foreign to me. I think the teachers saw that I was putting the effort into it it just did not make sense to me. they each gave me a B by the end of the school year,but I started out with a D in geometry,and a C in physics. I too got all A's in chem and biology, keep plugging,if you can afford it maybe a tutor to help you understand them better. My 2 nieces both graduated college with math degrees- go figure!

Answer 4

If Math isn't your thing - don't worry. From what you said, it sounds like your an awesome scientist, so you shouldn't be worried about not doing well in math. If you struggle in EVERY single subject, then that might be a mental problem. Just because you're struggling with math doesn't mean you have anything wrong with your brain. You can get online tutors that might help, or just get a math book were you can practice in your free time. Good lucking getting into chemistry!

Answer 5

How'd you do on the math SAT?

There are some people who never really understood the basics of math or had bad teachers, and then think they're just handicapped in math.

I can see from your post that you are a smart kid. If you have the right teacher and hire a good tutor if you need it, math can be a breeze for you.

My kids have both run into jams where they think they're too stupid to learn math. My husband, who is a former math professor, sits down with them, and explains things a little differently, and has them going to town in 15 minutes or less.

Okay. I think you're smart enough to whoop college math. But you need a good teacher. Ask around and find people who have taken the classes and find out which teacher is "easy" (which means she's explaining things so well they appear to be easy) or "really good" (which means she knows her stuff and can explain it up and down backwards or forwards--however you need it explained), or "nice" (she cares about her students).

Get rid of your math block. You are not handicapped. You're a victim of poor teaching, poor curriculum or even the time of day you were taught math (my son runs out of energy before 7th period and learns absolutely nothing in 7th period).

Math & science go hand in hand. It's unheard of to have a kid who's an ace in science (and language, too, I'll bet) not be able to ace math. They use the same part of the brain.

You're smart. You'll do well. I promise.

TX Mom
Not an educator

Answer 6

I dont think you are bad at Maths if you are that good at Science. I think you just need to practice a lot and concentrate enough. It seems like you really want to be good at Maths and I dont think anything could stop you from doing that. Never underestimate the power of hard work. Good Luck.

Answer 7

Many people are just not suited for math. Like myself. You have to have a brain made for it. You are probably more artistic. You can still pass math, it would jsut be harder than those who are apt at math but it does not mean you won't pass it, just get tutors or something and relax, it will be ok. I had the same problem in college and I suck at math but I got help and passed.

Answer 8

Yeeep. I remember being exactly in your position. I do believe though that if you are smart you should be able to do well in math. I think for a lot of people it just gets intimidating. Try to convince yourself you are good at math, even get a tutor if you need to get caught up. Don't tell yourself that you are just bad at math, maybe you just learn a different way.

Answer 9

it is not just you. it is a fairly common problem. you will be able to pull A's you just might have to work harder. Your college should have a learning center for math do all your homework in there and ask lots of questions.