Math is a complex subject. From calculus formulas to algebra equations, there’s a lot to get your head around.
Many students struggle so much with the subject that just thinking about a math test fills them with dread. And even those who are good with numbers can find math exams daunting.
The good news is that with enough preparation and the right strategies, almost anyone can ace their math tests. In this article, we’ll share nine top tips for passing math.
How can I pass my math exams?
You’ll have a better chance of passing your math exams if you draw up a study timetable, make revision notes, focus on the areas you’re least good at, utilise online resources, join a study group and look after yourself.
When it comes to sitting the exams, you’ll be more likely to pass if you make sure you write clearly, write as much as possible and answer any questions you are unsure of last.
Keep reading to find out more about these top tips.
Nine tips for passing your math exams
1. Draw up a study timetable
In the US, most high school students are required to take math, English, science, history and gym, plus elective classes such as music, art, business and gym. With so many subjects to study, it can help to draw up a timetable to make sure you are spending enough time on each one.
If you find math class difficult, it makes sense to dedicate more study time to it than to other subjects you might be more naturally good at.
As a math exam approaches, you can lessen the load, as per the 3-2-1 method. For example, three days before the exam, you spend an hour going over all the math vocabulary, doing as many practice problems as you can and reviewing any answers you get wrong. Two days before the math test, you spend 45 minutes reviewing the vocabulary and answering around ten practice problems. The day before the test, you spend 30 minutes reviewing the math vocabulary and doing a couple of practice problems.
2. Make revision notes
When revising for your exams, don’t just read through your notes and textbooks. You’ll be much more likely to remember and understand what you’ve read by highlighting or underlining the most important formulas and key terms and making flashcards or color-coded study sheets.
Your revision notes should be well-structured, organised and concise. Avoid copying everything word-for-word, as you will end up with information overload. Instead, note down the key points to trigger your memory about the wider subject matter. You may find it useful to come up with rhymes or acronyms which are easier to remember.
Once you’ve written your revision notes, review them within the first 24 hours, as this will help you retain as much information as possible. Then, go over them again, bit by bit, every day up until the exam.
3. Focus on the areas you’re least good at
When revising for a math test, it can be tempting to spend more time on the topics you’re good at. While this can be good for your confidence, going over something you already understand again and again is an inefficient use of your time. So, if you are struggling with a certain concept, complete extra problems to help you gain a better understanding, or ask your teacher or math tutor for a one-on-one session so you can ask questions as they’re explaining it to you.
4. Utilise online resources
Your math teacher may give you practice papers to help you study. If not, you can create your own practice test using problems in your math textbook, or you can download one online. Try to complete the test in an exam-like environment (timed and in silence) to give you a feel of what to expect and help you identify and rectify any gaps in your knowledge.
On the internet, you can also find online calculators so you can check your answers, as well as YouTube videos that give short and snappy explanations of difficult concepts.
5. Join a study group
As well as helping you stay motivated, studying with others enables you to discuss anything you might be unsure of and test each other on the concepts that are most likely to come up in the exams.
If you can’t find anyone from your own school to study with, you can join plenty of study groups online.
6. Look after yourself
Believe it or not, it is possible to study too much. After a while, your concentration levels will drop, and you’ll find it more difficult to retain information. So, don’t be afraid to stop and take a break when you need to.
It is also important to stay hydrated, eat regularly, and get enough sleep. This is especially important the night before an exam as it will help you stay focused.
Exam time can be stressful, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, speak to a parent or teacher who will be able to give you additional support.
7. Write clearly
It’s no good answering every exam question correctly if the person grading your paper can’t read your writing. If your handwriting is messy, they may confuse a 6 with an 8 or an addition sign with a multiplication sign, for example, and you’ll miss out on marks.
Also, you might be asked to draw a box around your final answer to make it easier to find, so remember to do this if you’re asked to.
8. Write as much as possible
With math tests, you’ll often get partial credit for correct workings, even if your answer is wrong. So make sure you write out everything and include any additional information that demonstrates your knowledge.
If you’re worried about forgetting specific math formulas or vocabulary, it’s a good idea to do a brain dump. This is where you write down everything you can remember from your revision as soon as the test begins. Then, you can refer back to it as and when you need to.
9. Answer any questions you are unsure of last
Rather than agonising over problems you’re unsure about, skip to the ones you can answer easily and leave the trickier ones until the end. Otherwise, you risk running out of time and missing out on marks you would have got for the problems you are able to solve.
Final thoughts
Many people find math challenging, so if you feel anxious about your math exams, you’re not alone. But if you manage your time effectively and adopt good study habits, you can ease the stress.
Adopting some or all of the tips listed in this article will not only make it easier to study for a math test but will also increase your chances of passing.
