What are some tips to help solve competitive maths problems?

Answer 1

When working on a mathematics exam or a competitive test, there are several tips to keep in mind. Of course, you should have kept up with your homework so that you know how to do the problems!

Here are some things to keep in mind for math:

• Work on practice problems - start out with several easy problems and work your way up to harder ones.
• Work on practice problems Part 2 - try to solve each problem on your own. Then, check your answer. If you missed the problem, you know that you need to work harder on that type of problem.
• Mix it up. Work on different kinds of problems - this helps you to be able to recognize when to use which type of math or which formula.
• Make a study sheet. Write a list of all the formulas you will need to know. Memorize this list!
• When you get your exam paper, write down the formulas in the margin so you can glance at them if you need to - writing them down also helps you remember how to use them.
• Read each question on the test carefully. Be certain you know what the question is asking before you start working. There might be several parts - be sure you answer each part. Jot down any numbers or important facts in the margin so you can think about how to fit them into your formulas.
• Show your work! Always write down your work in maths, especially as some teachers will give partial credit for work done correctly, even if the final answer is incorrect. Even if you know your answer is wrong, don't erase what you've written.
  
• Check over your work once you've finished the entire test. Check to be sure decimal points are in the right place. Look to be sure you have not missed a negative sign. Check your math if you have time - use the back of the test or a separate paper to re-do the problems and see if you get the same answer.