5 simple study habits that helped me MASTER math

Summary

In this video, Han, a math and engineering graduate from Columbia University, shares five tiny study habits that helped him excel in math and achieve top grades. He emphasizes the importance of memorizing basic concepts, learning from mistakes by creating a 'mistake notebook,' and maintaining focus during study sessions. Han also advises against seeking immediate answers online and suggests knowing when to pivot on difficult questions. Finally, he recommends verbally explaining math problems to solidify understanding. These habits, which have been crucial in his success, can benefit anyone looking to improve their math skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 Take 10 minutes daily to memorize essential math basics like equations, functions, and definitions to save time during problem-solving.
• 😀 Memorization in math helps you quickly recognize core concepts, allowing you to focus on more complex problems without getting stuck on the basics.
• 😀 Create a 'Mistake Notebook' to track errors, write the correct answers, and reflect on why you made the mistake to learn from them.
• 😀 Review mistakes before exams by compiling them in one place for quick revision, saving time and reinforcing key concepts.
• 😀 Resist the urge to immediately look up solutions when stuck; instead, jot down the problem and return to it later to maintain focus and flow.
• 😀 Math requires deep focus—build study habits that support immersion in your work, such as using focus music or soundscapes to enhance concentration.
• 😀 Focus music, like nature sounds, can help you concentrate and stay calm during study sessions, improving the overall experience.
• 😀 Use an app like Soundscape to track your study progress and motivate yourself with visual representations of your focus and dedication.
• 😀 Know when to pivot from a challenging problem; if you can't solve it, move on and return later after seeking help from a peer or teacher.
• 😀 Talking through problems aloud can be an effective revision strategy, especially when time is limited, allowing you to review key concepts and identify knowledge gaps.

Q & A

Why is memorizing the basics important for math students?

Memorizing basic concepts like equations, functions, and definitions saves time during problem-solving. It allows you to quickly recognize patterns and apply fundamental tools without wasting time on concepts you already know, helping you focus on more complex problems.

What is the role of memorization in studying math?

While you can prove most mathematical concepts, memorization plays an important role in helping you work more efficiently. Knowing the basics allows you to approach problems faster, letting you focus your energy on solving more challenging questions.

How can creating a 'Mistake Notebook' help with studying math?

A 'Mistake Notebook' helps you track and learn from errors. By documenting questions you got wrong, noting the correct answers, and understanding why you made the mistake, you can review them before exams and prevent similar errors in the future.

What’s the benefit of not immediately looking up answers when struggling with a math problem?

Resisting the urge to look up answers helps maintain focus. By writing down the problem and coming back to it later, you train your brain to stay focused and avoid distractions, which also improves problem-solving skills over time.

How can listening to focus music help during math study sessions?

Listening to focus music, especially nature sounds, helps create a calm atmosphere conducive to deep concentration. This can enhance focus, improve study efficiency, and make the overall study experience more enjoyable.

Why is it important to know when to pivot or take a break during math study sessions?

Knowing when to pivot or move on from a problem prevents frustration and waste of time. If you’re stuck, it's better to move on and return later with a fresh perspective, ensuring efficient use of your study time.

What is the 'flow' state mentioned in the video, and how is it related to math study?

The 'flow' state is a mental state where you are deeply focused and performing at your best. In math, this can occur when you're solving problems without distractions, leading to faster problem-solving and a better overall study experience.

How does explaining math problems aloud help with studying?

Explaining math problems aloud helps reinforce your understanding and identify areas where you might be confused. This method allows you to review more problems in a shorter time and is especially helpful during exam revision.

What is the Soundscape app, and how can it improve study sessions?

Soundscape is an app that provides music designed to improve focus. With tracks like nature sounds, it helps create an environment conducive to studying, making it easier to stay focused and track progress during study sessions.

How can building focused study sessions improve your math performance?

Building focused study sessions helps improve concentration and problem-solving abilities. By minimizing distractions and fully immersing yourself in the material, you increase the effectiveness of your study time, leading to better performance in math.