Transforming Math Struggles into Success

Sep 9, 2024

Overcoming Math Challenges: A Personal Journey

Introduction

  • Imagine waking up with newfound sensitivity to numbers.
  • Speaker: Han, a graduate from Columbia University Engineering School, majored in math and operations research.
  • Despite being perceived as intelligent, Han struggled with math growing up.

Academic Background

  • Origin: China.
  • High school education involved choosing between liberal arts (history, politics, geography) and natural science (physics, chemistry, biology) tracks.
  • Contrary to assumptions, Han chose the liberal arts track due to difficulties with math and science.

Early Struggles with Math

  • Faced challenges in understanding lectures and completing homework.
  • Initial math test score was 49; felt others were smarter.
  • A cycle of avoiding math due to dislike and poor performance.

Turning Point

  • Transitioned from hating math to enjoying it by changing study methods.

Effective System for Learning Math

  1. Initial Approach:

    • Attempt problems without prior understanding, leading to frustration.
  2. Revised Strategy:

    • Analyze the Problem: Mentally plan solutions before writing.
    • Consult the Answer Key: Understand the approach thoroughly.
    • Practice Independently: Attempt solving without the answer key.
    • Iterate: Repeat until reaching the correct solution.

Advantages of the New Approach

  • Positive Reinforcement: Successfully solving problems boosts confidence.
  • Efficiency: Saves time by focusing on understanding correct methods.
  • Comprehensive Understanding: Writing solutions independently leads to better mastery.

Understanding Math's Complex Nature

  • Math concepts require understanding foundational principles.
  • Unlike history, math needs thorough comprehension of interconnected concepts.

Dealing with Knowledge Gaps

  • Missing knowledge nodes can cause disconnects in understanding.
  • A plan is required to rebuild and connect these nodes.

Recommended Plan for Mastery

  • Practice Regularly: Solve 20 practice questions daily with answer keys.
  • Identify Gaps: Use problem sets to pinpoint and address missing knowledge.
  • Consistent Effort: Dedicate additional time to practice beyond homework.

Outcomes

  • Within a semester, went from struggling to excelling in math.
  • Became one of the top students and favored by the math teacher.

Conclusion

  • Overcoming initial difficulties can lead to newfound appreciation for math.
  • Hard work and systematic study can transform one's skills and perspective.

Final Thoughts

  • Persistence, patience, and a strategic approach can change one's academic trajectory.