How I get 100% in Maths Exams | How to Study for Maths

Summary

In this video, Dennis, a top performer in Mathematics Extension 2 during his HSC year, shares valuable tips to help students improve their math skills. He emphasizes the power of hard work, stressing that improvement is possible through consistent effort and understanding. Dennis outlines strategies to reduce mistakes, such as mastering topics, targeting weaknesses, and minimizing careless errors. He also recommends practicing past papers, maintaining confidence, and managing stress to excel in math tests. Ultimately, he encourages students to enjoy the learning process and assures that improvement is within their control.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hard work can lead to significant improvement in high school maths, even without natural talent or intelligence.
• 😀 There are two main types of mistakes in maths: mistakes due to difficulty with the topic and careless mistakes.
• 😀 To avoid mistakes from difficulty, focus on fully understanding the topics during class and asking questions when in doubt.
• 😀 Consistently spread out your study time throughout the term instead of cramming at the last minute. Dedicate a set time for daily practice.
• 😀 Identify your weak areas in maths and dedicate more time to practicing those areas until they become strengths.
• 😀 Reducing careless mistakes is crucial for improving your marks. Awareness of these mistakes and focusing on them can make a big difference.
• 😀 Make a list of common careless mistakes, review it before exams, and work to avoid repeating them.
• 😀 Doing more past papers can help simulate exam conditions, iron out mistakes, and improve exam technique, including proper presentation of work.
• 😀 Confidence is key to performing well in maths tests. A positive mindset, sufficient rest, and good nutrition are important for optimal performance.
• 😀 Having fun and enjoying the problem-solving process can help you stay motivated and improve over time. Celebrate small victories in your progress.
• 😀 Improving in maths is absolutely achievable with consistency, dedication, and following the right strategies. Success is in your hands.

Q & A

What is the main idea Dennis emphasizes about succeeding in high school maths?

Dennis emphasizes that success in high school maths is primarily about hard work and consistent effort, rather than relying on natural talent or intelligence.

What are the two types of mistakes students can make in maths, according to Dennis?

The two types of mistakes are: 1) Mistakes due to the question being too hard, where students may be unfamiliar with the topic; 2) Mistakes due to carelessness, where students know how to solve the problem but forget small details like units or signs.

How can students reduce the chances of making mistakes in maths exams?

Students can reduce mistakes by fully understanding the topics, consistently practicing throughout the term, identifying and focusing on their weaknesses, and staying mindful of their common errors to avoid them in exams.

What advice does Dennis give about studying for maths exams?

Dennis advises students to spread their study sessions over the entire term instead of cramming at the last minute. Consistent daily practice is key, and students should dedicate time each day to solve math problems.

What role does identifying weaknesses play in improving in maths?

Identifying weaknesses allows students to focus on areas where they struggle, helping them turn those weak points into strengths through targeted practice and seeking additional resources from teachers.

Can you give an example of how Dennis improved in a weak area?

Dennis mentions struggling with geometry, specifically circle geometry, and dedicating an entire weekend to practice. By the time of the HSC, circle geometry became his strongest topic.

What is one strategy for reducing careless mistakes in maths exams?

One strategy is to make a list of common mistakes and review it before the exam to be aware of errors you tend to make, such as mistyping numbers or missing a minus sign.

How can doing past papers help improve performance in maths exams?

Doing past papers helps students practice under timed conditions, simulate the pressure of an exam, and refine their exam technique. It also helps students understand how to properly present their working out according to exam standards.

What does Dennis suggest about the importance of confidence during a maths exam?

Dennis suggests that confidence is crucial for doing well in a maths exam. Mental clarity and a positive mindset, along with sufficient sleep and stress management, can help students perform better.

What is the final piece of advice Dennis gives to students who want to improve in maths?

Dennis encourages students to enjoy the process of learning maths, appreciating the challenge of solving tough problems. By enjoying the journey, students will naturally want to practice more and improve over time.