Reading a math text is not like reading a novel or a magazine. You might need to stop and think about a particular concept before you continue reading.
Math is a cumulative subject. If you miss a class or don't understand one concept, it will often prevent you from understanding other concepts. Always get help as soon as you know that you are having a problem.
Take Charge and Take Action
Participate in the classroom:
Volunteer to answer questions. Don't be afraid of giving a wrong answer. A classmate probably thought of the same answer.
Volunteer to write solutions on the blackboard.
Ask questions.
Assignments: Before you start an assignment, review your notes. You might want to highlight important concepts, equations, or definitions. To develop your math skills you need to work through problems by yourself.
Make lists: It is often useful to keep ongoing lists. Two possible suggestions are "formulas and when to use them" and "meanings of terms." Add to your lists as new items are introduced.
Be Prepared for a Test
Make it easier: Do your homework and get help as soon as you need it. Think about the concepts that you are going to be tested on. Then, work through some problems to sharpen your skills.
Look over your test when you receive it: If you see a question that you know exactly how to do, then do that one first. You don't have to do the questions in the order they are written.
Read each question carefully: Make sure that you answer what was asked in the question—not what you thought was asked.
Stuck on one question? Just go on to another question. You might get an idea that will help you solve the difficult one.
Show your work: If you make an error and arrive at the wrong answer, you will at least get some marks.
Time left over? Use it to verify your answers. You might do this by solving the same question in a different way or by working backwards. Check all your calculations.
Don't panic: Watch out for feeling nervous and "freezing up" during a test. If this happens, the best thing to do is STOP.
Take several deep breaths, exhaling slowly.
Remind yourself that you can do most, or all, of the questions on it.
Then, return to the test. Select a question that you know how to do and work through it.
If panic becomes a problem, you might want to learn a relaxation technique or talk to a counsellor.
