Study Skills: Math & Science
Translate problems into English
Putting problems into words aids your understanding. When you study equations
and formulae, put those into words as well. The words help you see a variety of
applications for each formula.
For example, the Pythagorean Theorem, C2 = A2 +
B2 can be translated as “The square of the hypotenuse of a
right triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.”
Perform opposite operations
If a problem involves multiplication, check your work by dividing; if addition
then subtract and check your work, if divide then check with multiply; if square
root then check with square; if differentiate then integrate.
Use time drills
Practice working problems fast. Time yourself. Exchange problems with a friend
and time each other. Do this in the Study Group.
Analyze before you compute
Set up the problem before you begin to solve it. When a problem is worth a lot
of points, read it twice, slowly. Analyze it carefully. When you take time to
analyze a problem you can often see ways to take computational short-cuts.
Make a picture
Draw a picture or a diagram if you are stuck. Sometimes a visual representation
will clear a blocked mind.
Estimate first
Estimation is a good way to double-check your work. Doing this first can help
you notice if your computations go awry, and then you can correct the error
quickly.
Check your work systematically
When you check your work, ask yourself: Did I read the problem correctly? Did I
use the correct formula or equation? Is my arithmetic correct? Is my answer in
the proper form?
Avoid the temptation to change an answer in the last few minutes – unless
you are sure the answer is wrong. In a last minute rush to finish the test,
it’s easier to choose the wrong answer.
Review formula
Right before the test, review any formulas you will need to use. Then write them
out on scratch paper as soon as possible during the test.
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