A major misconception about mathematics is that you need to be quick and memorize everything. Speed tests, memorization, and other rigid approaches work backward for students. There's a better way to acquire mathematical skills.

The first step is eliminating the fear of learning mathematics. Research shows that students learn best when they enjoy what they're doing. Therefore, the pressure to be the fastest and pass timed tests can be put aside. Let's look at some of the best ways to learn mathematics.

It All Starts With Foundations

Your math teacher may sometimes sound like a broken record. They want you to understand the foundations. Indeed, the foundations of mathematics all work together. We start by learning the basics like addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication. We build upon this knowledge as we move into algebra, geometry, and calculus.

Before moving on to more difficult subjects, you must understand the basics of mathematics. You will use basic skills when you learn trigonometry, algebra, and calculus.

Imagine that you're building a house. The framing of the walls wouldn't hold without the foundation. The foundations of mathematics give you a solid base for all other skills you will learn. By focusing first on the foundations, you give yourself the tools to succeed as you build. If you're wondering where to start, it's here.

Preparing for Success

Have you ever looked at your workspace wondering what kind of paper explosion occurred? Or when working on a computer, and you realize you have dozens of tabs open and can't find the one you need? A cluttered desk makes it hard to focus. Notifications popping up every five minutes only make things worse. This scenario might seem bleak, but it's quite common.

Mathematics is a subject that requires your full attention. Don't think of multitasking or studying in a noisy place like a busy café. When you create and set up the space for success, you're ready to succeed.

There are many tools to help with your studies, such as online tutors and  apps  that offer assistance. You make the most of all your learning materials when you're focused and dedicated to your study time. Plus, it's more fun to see where your commitment to learning mathematics will take you.

Using Number Sense

When it comes to learning mathematics, using number sense is just common sense. For example, think about numbers that are familiar to you. You know that 27 is close to 25. When you consider numbers that end in 0, like 10, 20, 30, or 40, it helps you understand how numbers are related to each other. The term may sound complicated, but number sense boils down to using what you already know.

Number sense is the ability to understand the meaning of numbers and perform mental calculations. You use it in real-life situations and make comparisons. It's something you constantly use, often without even realizing it. Refining your number sense helps improve your math skills.

Developing your number sense helps build your base and understanding of mathematics. It helps you calculate and solve the complex problems you face in high school. Number sense is developed from a young age, but even as you grow older, it's beneficial to practice. Here are some ways to do that:

• Visualize numbers and groups of numbers.
• Break down numbers and reassemble them in another way (e.g., 5, 5+0, 4+1, 3+2).
• Make a shopping list and estimate the costs.
• Practice rounding numbers up and down. (e.g., 49 rounds to the nearest even 50)

You will have fun and deepen your appreciation for mathematics when you take the time to use your number sense.

Mastering Math

Getting ready to succeed and putting yourself in the right mindset is helpful. Once you've achieved that, you can focus on the different learning methods. Mathematics covers a wide range of topics, but here are some general tricks that will help you learn:

General Tips

Practice

When you dedicate time to learning and developing your math skills, you improve over time. It's like learning to play the guitar. You can't expect to become a master by playing the guitar just once. You become competent by committing to practice.

If you want to learn mathematics quickly and with more ease, practice, practice, practice. Don't take your mistakes personally. Mistakes are what you make of them. If you let every mistake you make halt your progress towards mastering mathematics, you won't get very far. Because accuracy in work is vital in mathematics, it's better to consider mistakes as a learning opportunity.

The more mistakes you make, the more you will learn.

Ask for Help

Asking for and accepting help in mathematics will take you far. You might discover a new way to approach a problem or get help clarifying a question. You will go far if you're willing to ask for help. You can also easily access help right from the palm of your hand. With the benefits of online tutoring, there are  apps for your smartphone.

Use Rounding

Sometimes it's tricky to add two numbers in your head. A tip is to round the numbers before adding them together, which can speed up the process. For example, say you're adding 516 and 418. First, round each number to 520 and 420, respectively. Combining them yields 1040. Then, subtract the difference between the rounded numbers 520-516 (4) and 420-418 (2), which is 4+2 =6.

1040-6=1034

With practice, this trick will help you solve problems faster

Multiply to Make Sense

• Multiplying by 5

Remember this when it comes to multiplying a number by 5.

Instead, multiply your number by 10. Then, divide your result by two.

example: 82 x 5

1.) Multiply 82 x 10 = 820

2.) Divide your answer by two, 820/2 = 410

It's fun and quick!

• Multiplying numbers ending in 0

If the numbers you're multiplying end in 0, you can focus on the digits and not the 0s. Then, add the total number of 0s at the end.

example: 2,000 x 6,000

1.) Multiply 2x6 = 12

2.) In this example, there are 6 0s total in the original numbers you multiplied. Add the 0s to the end of the above answer, resulting in 12,000,000

Applying Math in the Real World

Don't be afraid of the math that surrounds you. In the real world, there are opportunities to play and explore your math skills. The more you practice, the more you learn. The easier it becomes to learn. These are the skills you can bring into the classroom and use for the exams you're preparing to take.

While it's common to have difficulty with mathematics, this doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to it. It's also common for students to apply themselves, seek help, and focus on improving their skills. You need to be ready to take risks by learning new study methods for high gain. Nowadays, it's nothing astonishing that you can use the learning style that suits you best. For example, an online tutoring app helps you develop your reasoning. You reach new heights in mathematics.

You'll be ready for classes and know how to prepare for important A-Level exams. It has never  been  easier to learn mathematics quickly and easily.