ACT 101

Student Success

ACT 101

Online Workshops

Math Tips

Number 13
Don't be afraid!!!

Math can't hurt you. In fact, math is quite manageable if you keep some handy tips in mind.

Here are a few tips from our tutorial staff.

First of all ...
Compass
  • Go to class.
  • Do homework problems EVERY day.
  • Ask questions.
  • Get help.

Some specific suggestions for math exams.
  • Be as accurate as possible even if you don't finish.
    • Pad and ruler
  • Work quickly but carefully, maintaining maximum accuracy.
  • Write legibly!
  • First, do the problems that are easiest for you.
  • Don't spend too much time on one problem. If it's hard for you, skip it, do the others, and then come back to it.
  • Show all your work!
  • Check your answers whenever possible.
  • If you finish early, check all your work before you leave.
Procedures for Solving Word Problems
  • Read the problem and write on your paper the answer to the question "What is the problem asking you to find?"
Crumpled paper
  • Pick a letter and define it in words to represent one of the parts of the problem.
  • Using the above letter, write in symbols and words, the remaining parts of the problem.
  • Write an equation.
    Eraser
  • Solve the equation.
  • Answer the original question.
  • Check your answer against the wording of the problem.