Math is one of the easiest subjects compared to others, though many might not agree since they often find it frustrating.
However, the truth is that math doesn’t require memorizing complex names, long theories, or facts.
It simply needs a bit more focus from you.
In this blog, I’ll share some hacks that I use, which made math fun and easy for me and it can help you too.
1. Always Start with the Last Question
Math exercises usually contain numerous questions, and it’s not always possible to practice all of them.
But if you begin with the last question, you’ll get a chance to grasp the maximum concepts.
The earlier questions are generally easier, so instead of wasting time on them, start with the last one. The last questions often cover the main concepts of the exercise, saving you time.
However, I’m not saying to only practice the last question. Work your way backward, doing the second-last, third-last, and so on.
For example, if an exercise has 40 questions, aim to do at least 10 to 15 of them.
But this technique is only valid when you’re already familiar with the basic concept of that particular exercise or chapter, when you’ve watched some videos before to understand the concept behind the exercise. Then you can do this.
2. Don’t Look at the Solution While Practicing
Many students have the habit of glancing at the solution while solving the problem, but this reduces productivity.
When you already know the end result, you won’t make a genuine effort to solve it on your own.
Try the question by yourself first and then check the solution afterward.
If you get it wrong, look at the solution method and then try again on your own.
Students who dislike math often say it’s because they have to memorize the steps. Many students tend to copy the solution from solution guides step by step while practicing, thinking it’s the easiest way to learn. But the reality is, most solution guides especially the ones available online or in books often skip several important steps. These missing steps create confusion, and students end up wasting a lot of mental energy trying to figure out how the answer suddenly jumped from one stage to another without any clear explanation.
They sit there, staring at the page, wondering where that number came from or why a particular formula was applied, and it becomes a frustrating cycle. They keep trying to decode the logic behind the skipped parts instead of actually learning the concept.
But what’s the point of just copying? If you’re not truly understanding what you’re doing, how can you expect to solve similar questions on your own later?
Copying might help you complete an exercise in the short term, but it won’t help you develop the ability to think critically or solve problems creatively. You miss the chance to train your brain to approach questions from different angles and find new solutions.
And honestly, understanding concepts deeply doesn’t require you to work like a machine. It’s not about extreme hard work, it’s just about giving it focused time and genuine attention.
Once you do that, everything starts making sense, and learning becomes smoother and more enjoyable.
3. Avoid Messy Work
While practicing math, make it a habit to write your solutions neatly.
Use bigger pages so you can fit all the steps properly on one line, avoiding confusion.
Students often give up after trying to solve long problems when they’ve done everything right but end up with the wrong answer due to messy work.
Avoid overwriting or crossing out things; neatness is key.
4. Move on to the Next Question
If you’ve tried hard, used all the methods you know, but still can’t solve a question, don’t waste too much time on it.
Move on to the next one. I know this sounds silly, but it works.
However, make sure to note down the question you struggled with so you can return to it later.
5. Take Breaks
Sometimes a short break can do wonders.
A quick walk, drinking water, or just relaxing for a few minutes can refresh your energy.
Your mind will be more focused when you return, and you’ll solve problems with more clarity.
So, if you’re feeling drained, take a break and everything will feel easier.
6. Seek Help
Always look at how others approach solutions and solve problems.
This will enhance your capability and give you a new perspective.
Discuss math problems with friends, parents, teachers, or anyone who can help.
Even if it’s just once, make sure to ask for help.
7. Focus on Understanding the Why, Not Just the How
Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton asked why.
Math isn’t just about solving problems mechanically.
To excel, you need to understand why a particular method works, not just how to apply it.
When you deeply understand the reasoning behind a formula or a method, you’ll be able to apply it more effectively to different types of problems.
Ask yourself questions like Why is this step necessary? or What does this represent? to deepen your understanding.
8. Use Real-Life Applications
You’ve also probably asked your math teacher at some point,
Where do we even use these long, complex solutions?
What’s the need to learn such difficult topics like derivatives, integration, and probability when we don’t use them in real life?
But the truth is, it’s possible that we might use these concepts in our professional lives, but not necessarily in our daily real-life situations. Still, you should learn them. Do you know why?
Because you’re here to explore, to unfold answers. These concepts will teach you that there’s always more than one way to solve a problem. They’ll train you to look at other people’s solutions with an open mind and an open heart. They’ll remind you that no matter how hard you try, sometimes your effort may still lead to a result of zero and that too is a lesson.
And beyond that, they’ll teach you patience, persistence, perspective and so much more.
So, one amazing thing you can do with math is try solving problems related to things you encounter in your daily life, like figuring out percentages at a store, measuring ingredients while cooking, or calculating your finances more complexly.
9. Understand Graphs and Diagrams
Most students focus on long solutions and derivations, but they fail to grasp the core concept. Graphs and diagrams make the concepts more visually appealing and help you understand the problem and its solution better.
Always use charts, graphs, and diagrams to assist in your learning so the long solutions won’t feel overwhelming.
10. Teach Someone Else
One of the best ways to solidify your understanding of math is by teaching it to someone else. When you explain a concept or a problem to someone else, you reinforce your own knowledge.
Try teaching a friend, a sibling, or even explaining problems to yourself out loud.
This technique helps you identify gaps in your understanding and think critically about the problem.
In the end, I just want to say that whatever you try in life, everything requires hard work and patience.
Even if you’re doing something you’re fully passionate about and enjoy, it still demands effort and time, day and night. So, keep grinding, and Inshallah, you will achieve success.
Mathematics may not teach us to add love or subtract hate, but it gives us hope that every problem has a solution.