How to Get Better at Math: A Guide to Improving Your Grades

How to Get Better at Math

Keep Organized Notes

It's important to keep your notes organized because it will help you relocate certain sections when you are studying for a quiz or test. In class, write down everything that seems remotely important and use neat handwriting! If you can hardly read your own writing, then your notes won't help you when you're reviewing. You may also want to leave spaces between problems so they're easier to read later on.

Make Flash Cards

You can create your own flashcards using index cards. Write a math problem on one side of each card and the solution on the other side. Then organize the cards so that you can only see the questions. Now you can test your knowledge by going through the cards. Try to say the answers out loud without looking. You can also practice with a friend or family member.

Speak to Your Teacher

Teachers may seem scary or too busy, but most of the time, they really want to help their students do better. If you're having trouble getting good grades on tests and homework assignments, ask your math teacher if you can meet and talk about it. Then, at the meeting, explain your problems. Tell your teacher which math units you are struggling with, and don't hesitate to ask for help.

Is it too loud at home to work? Are other kids making too much noise during class? Sometimes the solution can be as simple as moving to the front of the classroom or finding a quiet place to do your homework, like the library.

Help a Friend

Studying with friends takes discipline because it might seem more fun to hang out than to push yourself to improve. However, if you have a friend who seriously wants to get better math grades, the two of you can team up and help each other. Try going over each chapter of the math book together. Usually, people struggle with different types of problems, so you might be able to explain some of the lessons to each other. If you reach something both of you don't understand, ask for help from a parent, older sibling or teacher.