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Mathematics is an Intimidating Subject - Why Do People Think So?

By Puja RoyAugust 09, 2022
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Hurdles of Studying Mathematics and How to Overcome Them

Introduction

If we do a survey in a school regarding the most intimidating subject in a syllabus, the answer will be Mathematics. It involves the mathematical principles and formulas taught at different levels. Students find how to learn Maths quite challenging.


Is Maths difficult? It is a common stigma that Mathematics creates fear within students. It is actually an absurd idea that makes students fear this beautiful subject. We will discuss why Mathematics turns out to be more challenging than the rest of the subjects in a syllabus.


Mathematics is Hard: A Common Stigma

Not only students but adults when asked about Mathematics, a streak of fear and intimidation can be witnessed in their eyes. A major part of the pupil population is afraid of studying this subject. Is that a fact or a myth?


Mathematics is a subject designed based on logic and critical analysis. It teaches us the different mathematical operations we do to find an answer. Pupils find it hard to comprehend such concepts and principles taught in the class. Yes! Not everyone is the same but a majority of them are not on good terms with the subject.


Studying Maths can be difficult but not impossible. A preconceived stereotypical idea makes the students consider Maths as an intimidating subject. The fact is Maths is an excellent subject that can be made easier if you focus on the prime hurdles.


Hurdles of Studying Mathematics

1. The Concepts are Cumulative

If you observe carefully you will find out that every syllabus has Mathematics as the prime subject. You will discover that Mathematics is given extra attention. Even the teachers emphasise learning the chapters included in this subject.


Hurdles of Mathematics Making it Hard


Hurdles of Mathematics Making it Hard


The reason Mathematics is cumulative is that every level prepares a conceptual foundation based on what is taught contemporarily and what has been taught in the previous years. The cumulative knowledge you gain from studying fundamental subjects like Maths is used to study further. A student has to remember and use the previous concepts and mathematical principles to learn the advanced ones.


2. Inculcation of Information

The degree of absorbing information in the form of mathematical principles, concepts, formulas, and theorems is different for everyone. The attention span of intuitive thinkers is more than those who like to absorb information in a sequential way. The learning process of students is also diverse.


The teaching techniques are of prime importance in this aspect. It depends on how a teacher makes Mathematics interesting for the class. It will decide the degree of inculcation of a student.


3. Awareness of Learning Disabilities

If you ask a student fearing Maths what is difficult to calculate, he will instantly answer specific chapters in his syllabus. It is possible that students facing such difficulties might have learning disabilities. Their concepts of Maths are entirely different. The way they are taught makes a huge difference.


Understanding the disabilities of a student needs a proper environment. Parents comparing their wards with others will not do the trick. All the mentors, be it a parent or a teacher, will need to identify such issues and find out a unique way to teach how to do Maths.


4. Patience

Unlike languages and other subjects, Maths tests the skills of students. It is entirely different as it involves numbers, formulas, and principles. This is where students often lose patience. Failing to solve a problem once makes them worry. Self-confidence shatters when they fail to solve a problem or recall a formula.


Students need to be more patient and so have to be mentors. Your focus is directly proportional to patience. Practice will make you perfect and for that, you will need the essence of patience every second.


5. Opportunities

A student might lack the opportunity to study Mathematics in a proper way. The lack of study material and good mentors can develop a fear of this subject. The level of opportunities decides how a student will adapt to a syllabus of Mathematics.


How to Understand Maths Easily?

Well! This is a million-dollar question that has no specific answer. On the contrary, one can develop better ways to study and comprehend this subject to overcome these hurdles.


1. Find the Right Study Platform

One of the best ways to overcome the fear of this subject is to discover the right platform. A good platform will not only offer the ideal study material but will engage the best subject experts to teach Maths. The attitude and aptitude of teachers matter the most.


2. Concept Clarification

Learning new concepts will need proper engagement, patience, and a plan. Recall the older concepts you have studied previously to learn a new chapter faster and better.


3. Methodical Approach

Segregate your daily routine into different sections. Dedicate a lion's share of your daily study sessions to learning and practising Maths.


4. Group Study

The best way to overcome anxiety is to study with friends. Group study can be the best tool to develop confidence. You will find pupils like you struggling to solve the same problem.


Why is Maths Important?

Studying Mathematics will enhance your problem-solving, analytical thinking, and logical reasoning skills. You will also gain better opportunities at the advanced levels of your academics. Mathematics also trains students to make better decisions.


Maths is a Way of Life

Almost every technical subject you choose as a career will need Mathematics as a foundation. Overcome the stigma of Mathematics by following the tips mentioned above and becoming better. Convert Mathematics into your strength and develop confidence in pursuing advanced subjects. Get proper support to study Maths and enhance your performance. Work with your parents and teachers to overcome the hurdles and become better in this subject.