Nairobi; Kenya: Ask any student what subject is the most difficult and you are likely to get this answer — maths. The subject involves symbols and formulae. This means that the skills a student needs to revise for the subject are unique. Try these:
• Listening to the teacher and reading is not enough to make you excel in maths. You must do all the homework/assignments you are given; this way, you are able to master and internalise the procedures and formulae.
• Another unique thing about maths is that it is cumulative; everything you learn today builds on what you will learn in the future.
That’s why teachers always ask students to keep their class notes. Whenever you miss a math class, you feel lost in the next one. Unless it is inevitable, never miss a lesson.
• As you move up, maths gets more complex. This means that you must allocate more time to the subject if you want to succeed.
• In class, be an active participant and always try and be ahead of the teacher. Ask questions and the answers will stick in your mind.
• Because of its complexity, maths is not easy to cram. Instead, try as much as possible to understand the concepts. In the process, try and apply what you have previously learnt.
• Maths has its own unique vocabulary that can be misleading if used in the wrong context. Create a maths vocabulary book where you record all new terminologies you encounter with their definitions. Your list should include important theorems and formulae. Review the list every day.
• Most students have resigned to the fact that they will never be good in maths because they never understand it. That’s wrong. The subject just requires dedication, patience and discipline and you will surely fall in love with it.
• Never suffer in silence. Always ask for help from your teacher or classmates. Taking advantage of other people’s knowledge makes the subject easier.
• Like I have said before, you never go wrong with a study group. Form one that specifically focuses on maths.
• They say practice makes perfect. Do as many exercises as possible and you will realise that what was difficult before becomes a walk over.
For you to learn anything you need full confidence. Take things one step at a time as you practice and you will become a guru.
