How Can I Study for Math Tests? And how to

Transcript:How Can I Study for Math Tests? And how to:
How Can I Study for Math Tests? And how to know when you’re prepared. Studying for Math Some students claim that it's impossible to study for math Many students feel prepared for a math test and then cannot perform the problems when the test comes Studying for math can be tricky because you are tested on your ability to perform operations, rather than convey knowledge or express ideas. Students often rely on the homework to prepare for their math tests. If they could do well on the homework, they assume they can do well on the test This is an incorrect assumption for a few reasons: Many students complete math homework with the help of friends, parents, or tutors, thus their ability to complete it is not entirely indicative of their mastery of it. Typically, more time has passed (during which a concept can be forgotten) between doing homework and a test, than between a lesson and the homework. Tests ask students to switch “modes” between problems that test separate concepts, while homework typically covers a single concept and does not require mode-switching. Studying for Math (cont.) Here are some strategies for students to prepare for math tests: Complete homework on your own. This will require you to think deeply about the problems and rely on your notes, background knowledge, and recollection to solve difficult ones. Only ask for help when you have exhausted your options and are truly stumped. Complete homework assignments with the conditions you will have on the test. Don’t let yourself use the crutch of a calculator or formulas if you will not have access to those on the test. After you have completed your assignments without these resources, correct the problems with their help. Correct homework problems that you miss, even after you have lost credit for them. This ensures that you understand a concept before it comes up again. Studying for Math (cont.) Make a “re-notes” page with every important theorem, formula, definition, etc. that was introduced in the unit and review it often to memorize them. Put information on this that you wish you had access to on the test. Make “recipe” cards for how to solve a particular type of problem, with each step clearly explained and an example used. Find odd-numbered problems from your textbook (these ones typically have solutions in the back) that you think are representative of the types