Tips to help you perform better in maths

NAIROBI: Although mathematics is one of the compulsory subjects in our education system, many students have a difficult time with it. This article will help you understand how to study maths so that you get good results.

Practice: Reading and listening is not enough. The adage practice makes perfect applies here. For you to get a good grade in maths, you need to have solved numerous mathematical problems beforehand. Working through a difficult problem more than once is beneficial.

Review errors: Go through all your mistakes to determine where you went wrong. Identifying where you missed the point makes you a better student and keeps you from making the same mistake in future.

Key concepts: Master, not memorise, key concepts. Understanding the processes and logic involved will guide you as you tackle similar problems in future.

Patience: Maths requires time and patience. Get a friend to study with so you are able to share complex problems together.

Environment: Maths requires a lot of concentration. Ensure you have a distraction-free study environment that enables you to give your total focus.

Timekeeping: Be diligent in your timekeeping. Spend at least an hour daily on your maths revision. In the long run, you will see rewards. For those who get tired easily, a cup of coffee will keep you alert.

Other key pointers include:

• Always do your maths homework making sure to complete the most difficult homework assignments first. When you get stuck, check out examples in the text book then compare your answers with those of your classmates.

• Read ahead using your maths textbook and prepare questions in advance for the teacher. Pay attention in class and ensure you take note of examples the teacher gives. If there is anything you do not understand, ask the teacher to explain further.

• Each day after class, go through your notes so that they stay fresh in your mind.

• Never miss a maths lesson unless it is inevitable. If you are there every day, you will participate in all class exercises. This not only helps improve your grade, but also helps you get more practice.

• If you really do not understand what you are taught, get some kind of tutoring or start a maths study group with your classmates.