Arindam Ghosh, Vice President & Head of Strategy, Schoolnet
According to recent studies, 37% of teens from the age of 13 to 17 found math to be the most difficult subject. And this is typically because of the usage of formulas that consists of numbers, symbols, and even letters. Class 6 Maths up to class 10 maths is where these newer forms of mathematics are introduced to students.
One of the most difficult parts of maths is remembering all these formulas. All of us have had moments during maths class where we were so close to solving a math problem but we could not remember the formula. It is a common struggle of being a student. But don’t you wish you could have had some tricks to memorize maths formulas when you were a class 6 maths student or you were giving your class 10 maths board exams?
Now you can teach your child these 8 smart tricks to memorize math formulas:
Practice concentrating and focusing – Formulas, like those in both maths and physics, require extreme concentration and focus. It takes time for the mind to absorb them and the formula to stick, which is why it is necessary to work on your concentration level. You can build concentration by playing games like chess or sudoku, improving your sleep, meditating, and exercising.
Use mnemonic devices to remember – A mnemonic device is a learning technique that helps your brain retrieve information from your memory. You can either use those already available like PEMDAS (parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction) or make up your own! You can make up a song, an abbreviation like PEMDAS, or use a visual to help you remember. The possibilities are endless!
Practice, practice, practice – This is the most obvious tip but the more times you use the formula you want to remember, the more likely your brain is to retain the information. Solve problems that use the formula.
Understand what each formula means – There is meaning to every formula out there and the sooner you understand what each element means, the easier it will be to remember the formula.
Write the formula multiple times – This goes hand in hand with practising but even writing the formula repeatedly can help your brain remember it.
Keep yourself healthy – The healthier your body is, the healthier your mind will be. Get an adequate amount of sleep, eat foods that are nutrient-heavy, and spend some time exercising.
Keep the formulas in your line of vision – Write down the formulas and stick them where you will see them every day. Your brain will remember them subconsciously.
Stay away from distractions – When you are studying or practising math problems, keep all the distractions away. Give complete, undivided attention to the task at hand.
The more of these tricks you incorporate into your studying routine, the more you will remember. And completely ace anything, whether it’s your class 6 maths exam or your class 10 maths boards!
Picture: The Irish Times
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