How to Study Math

Outline:

1. How to Read Math
2. How to Take Notes in Class
3. How to Practice Math
4. How to Study for Tests
5. General Comments

1. How to Read Math
   • Read slowly & actively:
     • Make sure you understand everything before reading anything new
     • After reading each sentence, ask yourself:
       • Why?
       • Do I agree?

   • Algorithm for Slow & Active Reading

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2. How to Take Notes in Class
   • Copy as much as possible from the board or screen.
   • Copy as accurately as possible.
     • Include what I say but don't write.
     • Use abbrvns
     • Don't necessarily try to understand!
     • Write down any questions you have.

   • An advantage of my using the board instead of prepared slides is that it slows me down,
     which should make it easier for you to copy.

   • Then re-write your notes at home, neatly & without abbreviations
     • That is when you should try to understand!

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3. How to Practice Doing Math
   • Do the odd-numbered problems from Rosen
     (the answers are in the back of the book).

   • Do problems from the Schaum Outline Series books.

   • Use the Rosen text's "Student Edition" website.

   • Work with 1 or 2 other students in small study groups;
     check each other's work.
     • But don't cheat!

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4. How to Study for Tests
   • Use your recopied class notes, together with your highlighted textbook, to make an outline of the material.
     • Try to put as much as possible onto the front sides of only 1 or 2 sheets of paper
       (like those plasticized crib sheets that are often sold in college bookstores).
     • Then do all your studying from these.

   • Make your own "flash cards"

   • Solve lots of sample problems.

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5. General Comments:
   • Everyone should do well!

   • Math is a language;
     191 is like a programming-language course.

   • Read my "How to Study" guide!