7 Strategies for Solving Intricate Math Word Problems
In this blog, you will get to see some crucial strategies that will help you solve complex math word problems.
Most students get anxious at the mere mention of the word ‘mathematics’. Topics like algebra, calculus, and geometry are a nightmare for some students. But many forget that they are unable to solve the numerical as they do not have a good grasp of the subject matter. What they should be doing is resolving their issues by seeking the help of the math problem solver or by exploring different resources.
Crucial Strategies To Solve Complex Math Word Problems
- Develop a Good Concept
Always remember not to try to memorize the steps needed in solving a mathematical issue. This will result in a negative outcome. It is far more important to concentrate on comprehending the process and reasoning that underpins it.
Furthermore, certain topics are the building blocks for more advanced concepts. For example, you should understand algebra and trigonometry if you wish to solve calculus questions without any hassle.
Self-study will assist you in better understanding concepts and familiarizing yourself with difficult topics.
- Read the Question Thoroughly
Most students have a bad habit of not reading the question properly. Hence, they miss out on all the important details. For instance, if you are solving a word problem in algebra, you need to note down the expressions, the parameters, etc. Moreover, you need to understand what has been asked of you. Once you read the question, you will know how to approach the sum or what extra information has to be assumed.
When you start answering the questions, it is a good practice to list out the given information and the concepts or formulae you can apply at the initial stage. This will help you simplify the problem further.
- Apply the Schema Approach
This is a math intervention approach that can help all students, regardless of aptitude, solve problems more easily. Compare similar word issues and create a formula, or mathematical sentence stem, that applies to all of them. Simple subtraction problems, for example, could be written as:
[Number/Quantity A] becomes [final result] when [Number/Quantity B] is deleted.
This process is aimed at the students solving elementary numerical. But, there is no reason why students studying Complex Analysis, logic, and algorithms cannot take advantage of this process in their own way.
Once they’ve compiled a list of concepts for various mathematical operations (addition, multiplication, and so on), students can take turns applying them to a new word problem to discover which one fits best.
Often a lengthy numerical requires multiple steps. And in order to complete the steps, you need a quick calculation. You need to multiply, subtract, add quickly. Moreover, you need to estimate the square root of numbers, simplify algebraic equations or expanded expressions. This will help you save time and remove any frustration that might occur when you attempt a big word problem.
In order to recollect the formulae quickly, you should maintain a diary. Make a list of all the algebraic properties, trigonometric formulae, volume and surface area formulae, differentiation, and integration formulae. And go through them regularly, so that you face no issues whatsoever while solving a problem.
- Visualize, Check and Find Patterns
This step is for problem-solving. It’s generally easier to answer an abstract problem if you visualize it. On a piece of paper, students could draw a picture or tally marks. Next, they should try to make an educated guess and then plug the answer back into the given problem. This might be in the form of a trial-and-error method.
Students should know how to extract and list all essential data in a topic so they may be easily compared to detect trends. They’ll be able to locate the missing piece of information if they discover a pattern. Now, working backward is a rewarding process in mathematics, especially if you are trying to find unknown ‘x’.
- Pay Close Attention to the Working Out Process
Write down every step you take to solve a math issue. This will allow you to keep track of your thoughts and catch any errors before coming to a final decision. Another important self-monitoring method for math students is to check their work as they go. They need to ask themselves questions on whether the last step was correct or not or is it related to the previous step.
Students frequently make the error of believing that speed is crucial in math, so they rush to write down an answer and then proceed without double-checking it. This will help you see whether you have truly understood the concept.
- Check for Solved Papers
If you are struggling with calculus, differential equations, etc., you can look for solved papers online. You can visit the sample section of the academic service providers, or you can have a look at the library section of reputed universities. When you go through the papers, you get to see the steps properly.
And if you cannot comprehend the steps, you can ask your peers or professional experts how you can approach the word problem. However, it is advisable that you get to the bottom of the issue by taking a look at tutorial videos on YouTube. Or, you can visit sites like Khan Academy, or you can consult mathematical books.
If you abide by these steps, you will face no issues while solving word problems.
