Numbers Game: Ace Math Classes

Be On Time

Not just for your lecture but reviews, homework, quizzes, etc. Start early and avoid the trap of last-minute cramming. Review after each class to get it in your long-term memory faster. Avoid the all-nighter approach, as it leaves you exhausted on the day of the test.

Remember that math topics are interconnected, forming a spider web of information. Falling behind on one topic can have a domino effect on others, leading to lower grades. If you feel yourself slipping behind in class, don't hesitate to reach out to your professor immediately. Chances are, other students might be facing similar struggles.

Forage for info (learn to socialize)

Firstly, ask meaningful questions during lectures and clear any confusion right away. If you have questions that you believe can be answered with a quick online search, hold them until after class. Utilize your teachers as a primary source of information.

Make at least one friend in the class to help you get notes when life throws challenges at you. If you miss a class, it is extremely difficult to bounce back.

Start Strong

The beginning of the semester is an excellent time to establish a strong foundation. Utilize your breaks to review and prepare for what lies ahead. Just 30 minutes a day can work wonders in refreshing your knowledge.

If possible, obtain the course materials in advance, even a month or two before the semester starts. You can request the syllabus from your professor to gain insights into the subjects that will be covered. Mathematics doesn't undergo frequent changes, so last year's syllabus can still serve as a valuable guide.

Be ready before every lecture

Maximize your learning during lectures by being well-prepared. Ensure you have all the necessary supplies, including at least one highlighter (choose a color that you enjoy since you'll be using it extensively), a pencil, and a pen. Taking organized notes is crucial for easy reference later on. Consider putting the date and lecture number on top for easy tracking. Write the topic of the lecture in bold letters to help you find relevant materials for later reviews, such as online resources or YouTube videos. If possible, sit closer to the front (2nd or 3rd row) to stay more engaged and focused.

Being physically ready is just as important as being mentally prepared. Get a good night's sleep before each lecture and avoid eating or drinking excessively, as it can distract you during class.

Focus on big-price items

There is a difference between merely acing a test and genuinely grasping the concepts. If you plan to take more advanced math classes in the future or pursue a math-related career, it's crucial to focus on deep comprehension. However, keep in mind that mastery takes time and dedication; it's not achievable in a single semester. Therefore, for now, prioritize passing your current classes and completing your degree requirements. True mastery can be pursued during summer breaks or other academic downtime.

To effectively prioritize your efforts, follow this priority list for exam preparation, considering the points allotted to each item:

Topics that are guaranteed to be on the test AND are worth the highest points.
Topics that are guaranteed to be on the test BUT are worth fewer points.
Topics that supplement the top 2 items (e.g., lower-level math like algebra that you need to solidify before more complex topics).
Topics that you think might be on the test based on class discussions and previous exams.
Topics that are not expected to be on the test but still spark your curiosity and interest.

Next, focus on completing all the homework problems. Homework is usually assigned for a reason, and it often helps prepare you for exams or quizzes. Dedicated completion of homework can significantly impact your exam performance positively.

Lastly, it is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep your mind and body healthy like an athlete before a big competition. I truly believe anyone can understand and enjoy math despite the obstacles. Remember that even with a crappy teacher, you will get an A.