How to do well on NON-multiple choice math tests?

incompletenam
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 05:27:03 +0000

You are the example of why standardized testing doesn’t work for everybody. You have approached math as a series of steps, and not the logical puzzle it actually is. Simply memorizing formulas or “plugging and chugging” doesn’t count as learning. I suggest you watch proofs for formulas on Khan Academy. For example, instead of memorizing all the trig identities, you can simply learn one and logically figure out the rest based on that.

Do you know what Wolfram Alpha Pro is? You can enter in questions and it gives you the step by step solution on how to get there. I don’t know your homework load or you professors style of teaching, but practice odd numbered questions on your book and check the answers on the back. Attempt all problems first before looking at the answers. If you’re not sure how they got to the answer, use Wolfram Alpha Pro.

As far as test-taking tips, try to attempt all the problems and take all the time offered to you. Go over your answers and make sure you followed directions. Don’t be sloppy with your handwriting. If your professor can’t even read what you’re doing, you’re less likely to receive any credit. If it makes a difference, alter the way you write for your math classes in order to avoid algebra mistakes. I’ve seen people confuse the variable x for a multiplication symbol, the variable t for an addition symbol, the number 2 for variable z, absolute values signs for 1’s, the theta symbol for 0, and so on…