Math homework can seem like a massive chore and can be painful for many. Why? Assignments deliver hundreds of problems in such a short amount of time, and more complex problems appear the deeper you dive in. Not to mention, many distractions around us can prevent concentration. Yet we know just how important it is to gain even a basic understanding of math. Having math skills provides the basis for both time and money management (which are fundamentally important in today’s society). Let’s face it, basic math skills are important to everyday living as well. You use these skills to measure things like weight, food intake, planning, cooking, etc. We also use these skills to better understand the idea of quantity vs. quality, which allows us to determine whether or not an item is worth the cost.

Math doesn’t have to be a headache, however—not when the solution can be fairly simple.

The Procrastination PROBLEM

When you’re given an assignment that isn’t due for several weeks, what is the first thing you do? Do you get started right away, or do you wait, thinking, I’ve got plenty of time?

As stated by Dr. Whitebourne on Psychology Today, around 70 – 90% of undergraduates in the US are frequent procrastinators, and this is due to both a lack of self discipline as well as to bad habits built up over time. The longer and more often a person gives in to procrastination, the harder it will be to start or finish anything. 

Procrastination is a common human tendency that many struggle with every day without really realizing it. People are prone to putting off what they perceive to be difficult or painful; it’s natural to not want to do something hard. However, facing challenges and overcoming them are what make people grow.

Math is no different.

Don’t forget why you’re here: to make your way to a better career. Your hard work in college, while it may at times seem pointless now, will pay off in the end. What you learn in these classes will be important to your career choice. Also, the more effort you put into your work, the more respect and recognition you will receive from others.

Math is hard, but necessary, in the world we live in today. Don’t give in to your procrastination; work hard for the career you want.

THE KeyS to Success

Math can be a challenge for anyone, but here are a few tips that may help you through that massive “Math Homework Headache.”

1. First, know what you’re doing. When approaching something like math, you need to have all of your facts straight in order to get the correct answer. Don’t be afraid to ask your instructor about the material; that’s what they are there for. If you are unsure if you’re doing the problems correctly, it never hurts to have a few checked to make sure you are on the right track (Ask a Learning Center tutor or your math teacher for assistance in checking your work). 
2. Second, know your time limit. It is very important to know how much time you have for an assignment; this way you know your options and can turn in your assignments on time. Knowing your time limit puts things into perspective and can help you relax a little (or make you buckle down). When you know how much time you have, you can plan breaks in between sections so that you don’t overexert yourself. 
3. Finally, treat the assignment like a marathon, not a race. Allow yourself some cushion time to check your answers after taking a little break to clear your head. Don’t bust through the entire assignment just because you want to get it done. Sometimes it’s better to step back for a second and take a deep breath. Allowing yourself to have that cushion time is a huge stress reliever. It can clear your mind to work out the problem much faster and easier than when you were rushing or feeling panicked. Finally, before you turn it in, give yourself some time to review your work one last time to make sure that you are satisfied with your answers. 

Math homework can be tough, but these tips could save you from reaching for that bottle of pain reliever every time your teacher assigns a set of problems.

Work Cited

Whitebourne, Susan Krauss. “The Paradox of Procrastination: The Four Irrational Beliefs that Cause Us to Procrastinate.” Psychology Today, 10 Apr. 2012, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201204/the-paradox-procrastination.