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Reputation: 628

I'm doing well so far in my math classes, but how can I let go of the math anxiety?

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  • Qlandav2ex_small
    Reputation: 4209

    Math anxiety can arise from a number of different sources.

    In general, the daunting issue with any math problem is that there is generally, a RIGHT answer, one right answer, and lots of ways to arrive at an answer that is not correct if you don't use the appropriate process in solving the problem.

    Mathematics is a different language, expressions written in non spoken language symbols that if you are not familiar with how to "read" them creates a disconnect for the strictly language oriented person. In your studies learn to recognize what equations are 'saying'. If you can put more language to the symbols and remember the steps in solving the problem in a list of language explained processes then you can approach the seemingly confusing symbols in a logical fashion and work through them to an answer.

    If you are studying pure mathematics strictly from equations and presented problems then learning and using the logical steps taught to you is the key.

    If you are taking on "word" problems (those written out story problems) you have to learn to discern the critical information from extraneous facts that have been inserted to possibly confuse the problem solver. Make a list of the information you glean from the text. First, circle the facts as you run through the reading and then in the second reading cross out those you know you don't need, and make your list from that. Talk through it in your head, putting spoken language to the process helps many people.

    When taking tests, realize that you are working with a quantity of separate problems. Work through the ones that you immediately see how to solve. Don't let any problem stymie you or cause you to slow down and lose confidence. Often a later problem gives you some experience or jog your memory as to how to solve one you skipped in the first run through. When at the end of the test go back and start again working on the ones you skipped. Your confidence will be higher and having answered a bunch of problems already, you know you have scored points to a passing score. You may still skip problems in the second run through as you solve ones that previously vexed you. Continue the process until you have come to the end and then go back again to the ones skipped twice. Make you best effort on all of the problems from then on out. Finally look back at the test from the beginning and observe your work, this is where you may catch an error in logic or even something simple in the arithmetic of generating an answer.

    Math skills generally build from simple processes to more complex thinking. If you haven't gained mastery at one level you may have difficulty working with the processes at the next. Be willing to say you need more practice and get a tutor that you feel you can communicate with. Practice is the key. With a tutor, formal or informal, think out loud as you work with a problem so they can see where you might be lacking in understanding or in missing critical steps.

    By your own admission, you are doing well. Good for you and keep up the practice!
    I hope this helps.

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  • Office_054_small
    Reputation: 75

    Hi Kristin,
    Looks like you've got some good stuff to work with already. My first thought is that with such heady subjects, its easy to get a little stuck in our heads.

    What happens if you shift your attention to your body for a minute, noticing the sensations of your feet on the floor and body in the chair?

    Breath awareness can also help reconnect with the body, noticing how the breath expands and contracts your belly and chest. With practice, relaxing in this way can help you ground and let anxiety and stressful thoughts sink out of your system.

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  • Cats_small
    Reputation: 891

    I don't know a thing about anxiety, but I know I was over whelmed with the university style large lecture hall type math classes, if that's the situation you're in. I think if I were to attempt math classes these days I might try to supplement class with this website: http://www.khanacademy.org/

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  • Nurse_small
    Reputation: 0

    Math was the ONLY subject that gave me anxiety in school, so I feel your pain...

    That being said, the best advice I ever got from a math teacher about taming my anxiety- (note: AFTER I was grasping the concepts, as it sounds like you are) was to EAT.

    Yes, eat. Not pig out, not emotional eating, just a snack.

    She reminded me that my body was having a fight-or-flight response to a stressor (math, especially tests) and that if I was "being chased by a tiger" I would never stop and grab a bite to eat...the simple act of nibbling on a cliff bar or orange while taking a test helped to reinforce the message from my mind to my body that I wasn't in any danger, so I could just relax and focus...

    I hope you try this, and I hope it works for you! I still incorporate this strategy years later...

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