How to Study Algebra

Many people are scared of algebra. However, anyone can do it, regardless of whether or not you are a "math person". Although some people just have a natural talent for math, it is also a set of skills that can be picked up with a little motivation and discipline. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

Things You'll Need

• Study space
• Algebra problems
• Pencils
• Paper (lots of it!)

Instructions

1. Set up a Math Study Area

   First of all, set up a study area, and always study algebra in this area. Your math study area should be quiet and free of distractions: no phone, television, music, or people around distracting you.

   Make sure you have everything there that you will need: books, pens, pencils, paper, etc. You should only have to get up from your area to take a break. You don't want to have to realize that you forgot something, because if you jump up to go get it, there's a chance you will get sidetracked and not return!

2. Start your algebra study by looking over the notes you took for the day. Pay careful attention to any new material you covered. In what ways does the new material build onto what you already know?

3. Look at the example math problems. Go through them one step at a time, making sure you know exactly what is being done at each step.

4. Copy the example problems from your notes and then work them out yourself. Compare your results to the original answer. Are they the same? If not, go over your answer step by step until you see where you messed up. What did you do different? A little later, you might want to go back and rework the algebra problem.

5. Do the math problems you were assigned for homework. Usually, you can find the answers to the odd-numbered problems in the back of your book. This doesn't mean that you get off of doing your homework! The "cheat sheet" in the back is simply for making sure that your end result matches the answer. The actual working of the problem is the most important part, and is usually NOT to be found in the back of the book.

6. Create flashcards with key algebra symbols and terms. Don't waste the money buying them- make them yourself. (The actual making of them is a fun tool for learning.) Carry them wherever you go, and whip them out and have a look whenever you get a chance.

7. Whenever you have the time, do some extra algebra practice problems. This can be done right after finishing your assigned homework- but you can also write down some problems to take around with your flash cards and work on them whenever you find yourself with a little free time. Practice is THE key to getting good grades in algebra, and you want to do it whenever you get a chance.

8. While in class:

   Take good math notes. You especially want to write down example problems that your professor gives you. Often, your professor will do problems differently than the book- giving you tips to make it a little easier. If you are not paying attention, you will miss out what is said, which might result in confusion when you get home and your notes don't match up with the book.

   Ask questions. Get clarification for anything you don't understand. (Asking questions will also show your professor that you are genuinely interested in learning the material, which might come in handy if you are on the cusp of making a higher grade!)

   Ask for extra algebra problems. The more chances you get to practice, the better you will get!

9. Not only should you do the algebra homework you are assigned, you should also read the material you will cover in the next class. You want to understand this material as good as you can so that you will understand what the teacher is talking about in class. The more you ALREADY understand it, the more you will get out of the class. And, if you have any questions, you will be prepared to ask them. What if you have questions about the homework the night before, but instead of getting them answered, you get... a pop quiz?!

10. Finally:
    Tutor others in algebra. I can't stress how helpful it can be to communicate to others what you already know. It will totally reinforce what you know, giving you much deeper insight into your studies while prolonging the time it all "sticks" in your mind.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to study algebra at the same time each day. A helpful hint is: if you are preparing for an exam, do your studying at the same time as your exam will be, but on the days prior to the exam. This will prepare your body and mind to be in algebra-mode at that particular time of the day. (In other words, if you have an exam at 8:00am on Friday, try to do some studying at 8:00 that Monday-Thursday.)

• Do a little algebra every day, or aim for at least five times a week. It is better to do a few problems every day than a whole bunch once or twice a week.

• If you are going to need a math tutor, get one BEFORE you fall behind. It is better to be prepared than to get behind and try to catch up.

• Don't be afraid to sketch drawings and diagrams to help you understand the problems better.

• Work S-L-O-W-L-Y, especially until you get the hang of the algebra you are doing. There's nothing worse than totally understanding a problem and getting it all correct... except that you thought a "7" was a "2", making you mess up the arithmetic and get the whole answer wrong.

• Some people find it helpful to get with an algebra study partner or a study group. But it's okay, too, if this isn't your thing. Not everyone likes studying with others or in a group.

• Don't work in bed. It can be tempting to lie down and get comfortable while you are studying, but this is not a good way to study.

• Don't get behind!

Resources

• Algebra Survival Guide