What is Math?
Math is the program of study that looks at things like quantities (numbers), shapes, (geometry), and continuous change (calculus). It can be used to build video games, calculate tips at restaurants, and even evaluate the perfect night's sleep!
Math is a compulsory course of study that is taught at grade 1 through to grade 12, and students can continue to study math at college and university. Starting with elementary school math, young students are introduced to basic arithmetic problems (adding, subtracting, dividing and multiplication). As the students move on from simple math, they will explore topics like fractions, decimals, rounding numbers, and percentages. They will then move on to more complex elements like algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.
The great thing about math is that it never changes, and its presence can be found in practically everything around us, from music and architecture, to video games and cooking. With that in mind, it's easy to see why learning math is so important.
What is Arithmetic?
Arithmetic is the area of math that deals with the properties and manipulation of numbers via "operations". These operations combine numbers (+), remove numbers (-), repeat additions (x), and separate numbers into equal groups (÷).
The operations are known by the following words:
- Addition
- Subtraction
- Multiply
- Divide
In arithmetic the equals sign (=) is used to highlight the answer of an operation.
For example: 2 + 2 = 4
The operation is addition and the equals sign points to the answer of the operation. Each operation has a different name for the answer and these are as follows:
- The answer to an addition operation is known as the
sum
- The answer to a subtraction operation is known as the
difference
- The answer to a multiplication operation is known as the
product
- The answer to a division operation is known as the
quotient
So if someone were to say "what's the sum of 6 and 4?" you'll know that they want you to add the two numbers together.
How Can I Learn Math?
The best way to learn math is to pay attention in class. Listening to your teacher will make math problems easier to follow and to solve. To help you learn in class, you should try your best to avoid distractions. It can be tempting to sit next to your friends or play on your phone, but avoid the temptations, focus on the lesson, take notes, and listen to your teacher.
Another way to learn math is to ask questions. Your teacher will be a useful resource in learning math, not only will they teach you what you need to know, but unlike a textbook, they can respond to any questions you may have. If you have any math questions, raise you hand and ask for help. There's a good chance that other students in the class have the same questions as you, but don't wait for them to ask the questions for you. Take ownership of your learning and don't be afraid to ask for assistance, it will help you in the long run.
If you need further help with math, and you want a convenient way to learn math fast, browse our collection of online tutorials and search for the topics that are causing you issues. You may find that our easy to follow math videos do a better job of conveying the information to you. We cover all the content found in modern textbooks and we have step-by-step examples for everything you'd be expected to know ahead of your upcoming exams.
Additionally, you should also make every effort to complete the homework assignments given to you by your teachers. Your teacher gives you homework to allow you to practice what you've been taught, and as we'll explore below, practice makes perfect.
How to Get Better at math?
Whether it's elementary math, basic math, or complex math, the best way to learn is with repetition. Much like learning a language or playing a sport, the more you practice, the better you get, so if you want to learn and improve your math skills, take the time to practice outside of your scheduled lessons.
During your independent study sessions, go over your class notes (if you're not taking notes, you should be) and review your past quiz/test results to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Based off of that information, you can focus your efforts on building your weaker areas of math and in turn, become a more rounded mathematician. Watch our basic math tutoring videos to further strengthen your understanding of the curriculum content and then attempt to complete a basic math test. Doing so, will allow you to assess your progress in your weaker areas and will help to reinforce your stronger areas too (remember, practice makes perfect!).
When taking a basic math test, try to replicate exam conditions, which means no phones or any other potential distractions. Stick to the time limited of the paper and have someone else mark it for you. Getting into the habit of sitting these tests regularly will strengthen your knowledge in math, help you track your improvements, and boost your confidence ahead of your actual exams.
Whatever your skill level, and regardless of the topics you're struggling with, we'll have the revision aides to make math easier to understand. As a subscriber to our service, you'll have access to every video on our site, allowing you to select the lessons that are relevant to you, and providing you with a tailored study plan that addresses your needs.
Furthermore, as your online math tutor, our basic math lessons can be accessed 24/7 and can be paused, rewound, and fast-forwarded, meaning that you can learn when it's convenient for you, at your own pace, and without being left behind.
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