How to Learn Math the Easy Way

Mathematics is the queen of science.

Mathematics is one of the most challenging subjects in school, if not the most challenging. Learning it requires a focus, a consistent intellectual effort and time. Still, it is possible to make learning math as easy as it can get. The main principle here is to learn step-by-step; in math, as in most other sciences, you cannot go to a complex subject without learning the basic concepts.

Instructions

1. Learn whole numbers, or integers -- for example, 6, 199 and 4,449. Whole numbers form the basics of mathematics. Also, learn arithmetic operations with whole numbers, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Also, learn to round off the numbers. For example, 3,898 can be rounded off to 3,900. Rounding is important because it allows people to focus on the "big picture," allowing for easier estimation. For example, if you need to calculate how much 11 pounds of sugar cost, given that the price is $0.97 per pound, it is easier to multiply 1 by 11 rather than $0.97 by 11.

2. Learn fractions. A fraction is, essentially, a part of a whole -- for example, 1/2. Also, master arithmetic operations with fractions. You can only subtract or add fractions that have the same denominator -- the bottom part of the fraction. When the fractions have the same denominator, add or subtract the numerators, leaving the same denominator. To get the fractions to the same denominator, multiply or divide the denominator and numerator by the same number. For example, 1/2 + 3/4 would translate to 2/4 + 3/4 by multiplying the denominator and the numerator of 1/2 by 2. The answer would be 5/4, or 1 1/4.

3. Learn decimals, after you feel comfortable simplifying, adding, dividing, multiplying and subtracting fractions. Also, learn to convert fractions to decimals and likewise. For example 1/2=0.5. Learn how to perform the reverse calculation. Knowing that 0.1 is 1/10, 0.01 is 1/100, .0.001 is 1/1000 and so on. For example, 5*1/10=5/10, or, after simplification, 1/2.

4. Learn how to calculate percents. Basically, one percent is 1/100 of a whole. For example, 10 children out of 30 equals 10/30*100%=33.333 percent.

5. Master algebra. Start by learning what a variable is. In mathematics, a variable is a special symbol, such as "x" or "y," which has a value that is typically unknown. Learn how to solve equations with one unknown variable. For example, x+3=15-x. Start by performing equations to isolate the x. Add one x and subtract 3 to both the left and right sides of the equation. x+3+x-3=15-x+x-3, 2x=12. By dividing both sides by 2, you'll get x = 6. After you can solve equations with one variable, move on to more complex equations with two or more variables.

6. Learn geometry. First, understand different types of angles and parallel and perpendicular lines. Learn triangles and other two-dimensional shapes. Learn how to find the perimeter and area of these shapes. Then, move to 3-D geometry, learning figures such as pyramid, cone, prism and sphere.

7. Learn at the basics of probability and statistics. After you do that, you will be able to understand the likelihoods of certain events -- for instance, your chances of winning a lottery. For example, the chances of you getting either a head or a tail after tossing a coin are 50-50, or 50 percent for the tail and 50 percent for the head.

References

• "Math the Easy Way;" Anthony Prindle, Katie Prindle; 2003

Resources

• BBC: Whole Numbers
• Math Forum
• Math is Fun