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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
Initial Approach
:
Attempt problems without prior understanding, leading to frustration.
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.
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