Study Skills - Math Anxiety

Excerpts from Overcoming Math Phobia by Karen Robinson

For many people, the most difficult and sometimes frightening part of completing a college degree is getting through the required math course. In my 22 years of college math teaching, I’ve made a few observations.

1. The most important is that success breeds success. If you can do well on one math test, you will gain confidence, and chances are you can do well in the class.
   
   
2. Make sure that you’re signed up for the appropriate class. At Aims we have pre-assessment tests that will tell you which math course should be just right for you. Don’t skip prerequisites.
   
   
3. See if you can find a teacher that matches your learning style. You may want to interview several teachers and ask them what teaching methods they use.
   
   
4. Be sure to attend class every day, and do all the homework assigned. Be sure to ask for help. If you have found a teacher with whom you feel comfortable, this will be easier to do.
   
   
5. If you need more help, Tutorial Services has tutoring by real people as well as computer. The tutors and lab personnel are trained to be helpful, not scary.

A few tips on taking a math test, which is one of the scariest things a student can do.

1. Don’t stay up all night studying for a test. Take time several days before the test to review a little each day. The only way you can get enough preparation is to work hard every day. Cramming doesn't help much in math.
   
   
2. While studying, make up a practice test and take it without peeking at the book or your notes. Try to make your studying experience like the test will be.
   
   
3. Eat a good breakfast.
   
   
4. Go for a brisk walk before the test; take time to relax. If you’re religious, spend a few moments in prayer.
   
   
5. Try to make the test experience as much like the studying experience as possible. If you chew gum while you study, bring some to the test. Peppermint tea is supposed to be good for relieving anxiety.
   
   
6. If you’ve memorized any formulas, write them on the test before you actually begin to work the problems.
   
   
7. Find a question you can solve and work it; don’t worry about the others." If you can get one problem worked successfully, you’ll have started that positive momentum that can carry you through the test. Save the hardest for last.
   
   
8. Don’t allow yourself to think about the grade you need while you’re taking the test.
   
   
9. If for some reason you do badly on a test, talk to the teacher about your options. Some teachers drop the lowest test, some may let you re-work some problems for extra credit.
   
   
10. Lastly, don’t listen to anyone who said you were no good at math. Chances are those people were wrong about you.

For more click here: Karen’s Web Page