How to Be Good at Math and Improve Your Grade

Math is one of the top subjects people struggle with in schools and in life. Many people spend their whole lives convinced that they will never be good in math. The truth is, however, that anyone can excel in math as long as they have confidence and the right resources.

Instructions

1. Stop believing that you can't do math. Everyone has the capability to do math. Math is just as important as literacy, and just like with learning how to read, learning how to excel in math takes time and patience.

2. Start at the basics and work your way up. A lot of people struggle with math because they are trying to do problems based on concepts they still don't understand. The world of mathematics is nothing more than a building block leading from one stage to the next. Multiplication is simply adding a number a certain number of times. Division is just the reverse of multiplication. And algebra is often nothing more than using basic math to figure out an unknown variable.

3. Accept that math requires memorization. While there are certain tricks to help you learn the times tables, etc, in the end it's most effective to simply use rote memorization to remember what is 8 x 7 or 13 x 4.

4. Practice, practice, practice. Practice is a central part of learning math, as well as just about anything else in life. Most children don't know how to read after picking up just one book, just as most people can't figure out how to do math problems just by looking at one equation. And it's much easier to memorize formulas if you're constantly using them.

5. Stop using a calculator except when checking your answers. Calculators are fine to use if you can already calculate numbers rapidly in your head, but if you are struggling in math, it's best to work out everything by hand. If you practice enough, eventually you'll find that you don't even need a calculator; you'll be able to calculate numbers faster than you would if you were punching the keys into the calculator.

6. Get a tutor. While it's possible to use the library and textbooks as a means to learn math, sometimes it's just not sufficient. A tutor will work to help you figure out the parts in math you're struggling with and will figure out ways to best help you learn.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to set out time to practice your math at least 15-20 minutes a day.

• There is often more than one way to solve a problem. If you find one way is too complicated, try something different. Another way may be easier.

• If you get stuck on a particular concept, don't get frustrated. Ask someone knowledgeable for help, or try to find a detailed resource that will explain the concept in further detail.