Posted by Are you about to study for a mathematics test? If you have found this page, then it’s very likely that you are – and you probably aren’t looking forward to it.
Mathematics is a subject that many people find difficult and not purely due to its subject matter. What most students find the hardest about mathematics is how to study for it.
Students are also notoriously disorganized, which can also complicate the studying process. But don’t despair; there’s a series of practical steps that you can follow that we will cover in this guide of how to study for your next mathematics exam.
In basic terms, a good study plan for mathematics should emphasize the following:
- Intense study days per unit for the content you’ll be tested on.
Jumping around from chapter to chapter in an attempt to cram for everything at once is unlikely to the results (and grades) that you’d be proud to show your parents or friends.You’ll find that you’ll remember more and have a deeper comprehension of mathematics if you slow down to speed up, which basically just means to take it easy and ensure you’re cover one unit or chapter each day. - Plan ahead and start early.
Nothing puts your academic career in more jeopardy than procrastination. Although it’s reasonable to say that nearly every student puts their studying off at some point in their lives, this is highly inadvisable, and certainly does not mean that it’s a good idea to follow.The earlier you start studying for your mathematics exam, the less stress and anxiety you’ll feel when it comes to do the real thing. You’ll also retain far more knowledge about mathematics that you can take with you into your future careers if you begin studying when you’re meant to - Complete as many exercises that you can.
Mathematics is something that you get better at experientially, meaning that the more you put the formulas and equations you have memorized into practice , the easier your final exam is going to be. It’s no coincidence that every mathematics textbook, from elementary school through to college, are filled with a copious amount of exercises.In addition to what’s supplied to you by your school, college, or university, you will find many more tasks to complete online that can be accessed free of charge.
- If you are struggling, ask for help.
Getting help from a friend, tutor, or teacher is typically not a student’s first course of action when they find a particular unit or exercise difficult. In fact, asking for help or guidance is usually the last thing a student will think of until they have reached a point of desperation.No matter how difficult mathematics may seem to you, there is someone out there that will be willing to help you put the pieces of the puzzle together. Guidance does not have to come in the form of paid tuition; even something as informal ask asking your friend or classmate enough can make a world of difference.
- Find and join study groups.
There’s a very good reason for why many teachers, deans, and tutors recommend that all mathematics students join a study group. Study groups are a great way to learn in a cooperative environment with your peers. Sometimes a good study group can be substitute for expensive tuition fees and can shorten the length of time that it takes you to understand the key concepts found in the curriculum.It’s likely that there is already a way for you to sign up or start your own study groups at your school or college campus, so getting started with a maths study group should be quick and easy.If you can’t find an existing group to join, then begin one yourself! You may be surprised to learn that many people do in fact want to study with you and improve their own grades. Your teachers and lecturers may also be a good starting point if you are struggling to find interested students to join you.
- Buy and use study guides.
No matter the exact curriculum that your specific maths test covers, it’s very likely that there are already guides that you can purchase that can shorten your learning curve. Guides such as those found for the AP Mathematics test can easily be found on sites such as Amazon, as well as through most libraries and bookstores across the country.Study guides are useful because sometimes you just need a different point of view in order to fully internalize the core ideas. Presenting information in a novel way is not only refreshing, but can work to further solidify the understandings you have already.Study and course books are also filled with exercises that you can immediately put into practice. You won’t need to worry about running out of real world experience when using these books, as they are packed with examples of varying levels of difficulty for you to cut your teeth on.
- Teach other students.
By teaching what we know to others, we work to understand our own knowledge better. It shouldn’t be hard for you to assemble a small group of struggling students, or even just one friend that you know from your class to practice your knowledge.Helping other students achieve their goals will also win you a friend for life, as many families simply cannot afford expensive tuition costs charged by private tutors.
Conclusion
Thanks for reading our guide on how to study for a maths test. We hope that you found the information contained useful and informative.
In summary, the following key points are our advice for anyone who is wondering how to get the most out of their exams:
- Study one core idea at a time and avoid jumping ahead while studying.
- Plan ahead and avoid procrastination at all costs.
- Seek out and join study groups.
- Help other students through teaching and solidify your own understandings.
- Take advantage of the numerous study guides available for your subject.
- Complete as many exercises as you possibly can.
- If all else fails, ask for help early so that you do not fall behind.