4 answers
Livia
Student
Rowlett, Texas
1
Question
Updated
336 views
How do I start re-learning math?
I've struggled with math all my life. I haven't had a proper math class for a while, and I've practically forgotten everything. How do I start re-learning algebra/stats so I can develop the math skills I need for college?
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4 answers
Andrew Au
Professor of Mathematics & Statistics, Retired
258
Answers
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Mathematics is a language, a symbolic and logical language. It is different from our natural language, and, hence, it appears to us as an alien one. Many of us have had a difficult time with mathematics. Fortunately, the situation is not insurmountable. What we need is patience and practice, practice, and practice as if it were a natural language we try to get proficiency.
That said, we need to have a good start in the learning of mathematical language. Students often struggle because they advance without a solid foundation. Therefore, you may want to consider going back to prealgebra, and Algebra I, and Algebra II to rebuild your foundation.
Mathematics is not a spectator sport. You need to practice a lot to build a solid foundation in proficiency and competence. Do not rush. It will take time and practice. Once you build a strong foundation, progress becomes easier. Eventually, we will be able to excel in College Algebra, and Statistics.
That said, we need to have a good start in the learning of mathematical language. Students often struggle because they advance without a solid foundation. Therefore, you may want to consider going back to prealgebra, and Algebra I, and Algebra II to rebuild your foundation.
Mathematics is not a spectator sport. You need to practice a lot to build a solid foundation in proficiency and competence. Do not rush. It will take time and practice. Once you build a strong foundation, progress becomes easier. Eventually, we will be able to excel in College Algebra, and Statistics.
Marcelo Schiavo, MBA, PMP
Project Manager
10
Answers
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Updated
Marcelo’s Answer
Hello,
Begin by strengthening your basics instead of diving right into challenging algebra. The quickest way to improve is by identifying any gaps, refreshing your knowledge of arithmetic and pre-algebra, and then gradually moving on to algebra and statistics with plenty of practice problems.
Steps to follow:
Start with a quick test to find out where you need help, especially with fractions, decimals, negatives, exponents, and solving equations. This will help you focus on what you need to learn, saving you time on things you already know.
First, review arithmetic and pre-algebra since algebra relies on a solid understanding of basics like fractions, ratios, and the order of operations.
Then, progress to Algebra 1, followed by Algebra 2, and finally basic statistics. This step-by-step approach is better than trying to learn everything at once.
Practice each topic until you can solve problems without notes. Math skills grow through repetition and correcting mistakes, not just watching explanations.
Study tips:
Focus mostly on solving problems instead of watching videos. Videos can help explain concepts, but solving problems builds skill.
Keep a log of mistakes, noting exactly what went wrong, like sign errors or fraction handling. This helps turn mistakes into learning opportunities.
Study in short, daily sessions rather than long, infrequent ones. Consistency is key to rebuilding your foundation.
If you get stuck, take a step back and ask yourself what you might not fully understand. This usually helps you find the real issue more quickly.
A good starting path:
1. Fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages.
2. Negative numbers, exponents, and order of operations.
3. Linear equations, inequalities, and graphing.
4. Functions, polynomials, factoring, and radicals.
5. Intro to statistics: mean, median, standard deviation, probability, and interpreting graphs.
Simple weekly plan:
- 3 days a week: Spend 30-45 minutes on one topic.
- 1 day a week: Review older topics.
- 1 day a week: Focus on statistics or word problems.
- Always finish with 5-10 practice questions and review any mistakes.
For a smooth start, try using Khan Academy for guidance and Desmos for help with graphs when they seem confusing.
Begin by strengthening your basics instead of diving right into challenging algebra. The quickest way to improve is by identifying any gaps, refreshing your knowledge of arithmetic and pre-algebra, and then gradually moving on to algebra and statistics with plenty of practice problems.
Steps to follow:
Start with a quick test to find out where you need help, especially with fractions, decimals, negatives, exponents, and solving equations. This will help you focus on what you need to learn, saving you time on things you already know.
First, review arithmetic and pre-algebra since algebra relies on a solid understanding of basics like fractions, ratios, and the order of operations.
Then, progress to Algebra 1, followed by Algebra 2, and finally basic statistics. This step-by-step approach is better than trying to learn everything at once.
Practice each topic until you can solve problems without notes. Math skills grow through repetition and correcting mistakes, not just watching explanations.
Study tips:
Focus mostly on solving problems instead of watching videos. Videos can help explain concepts, but solving problems builds skill.
Keep a log of mistakes, noting exactly what went wrong, like sign errors or fraction handling. This helps turn mistakes into learning opportunities.
Study in short, daily sessions rather than long, infrequent ones. Consistency is key to rebuilding your foundation.
If you get stuck, take a step back and ask yourself what you might not fully understand. This usually helps you find the real issue more quickly.
A good starting path:
1. Fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages.
2. Negative numbers, exponents, and order of operations.
3. Linear equations, inequalities, and graphing.
4. Functions, polynomials, factoring, and radicals.
5. Intro to statistics: mean, median, standard deviation, probability, and interpreting graphs.
Simple weekly plan:
- 3 days a week: Spend 30-45 minutes on one topic.
- 1 day a week: Review older topics.
- 1 day a week: Focus on statistics or word problems.
- Always finish with 5-10 practice questions and review any mistakes.
For a smooth start, try using Khan Academy for guidance and Desmos for help with graphs when they seem confusing.
Sandeep Khandelwal
Software Engineer
143
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Sandeep’s Answer
Hello Livia,
The best way to re-learn math is to start from the basics and practice consistently. Begin with foundational topics like algebra and gradually move forward instead of trying to learn everything at once. Daily practice, even for 20–30 minutes, can make a big difference.
You can use free learning platforms like Khan Academy or Coursera, which explain concepts step by step and provide practice problems to help rebuild your confidence.
The best way to re-learn math is to start from the basics and practice consistently. Begin with foundational topics like algebra and gradually move forward instead of trying to learn everything at once. Daily practice, even for 20–30 minutes, can make a big difference.
You can use free learning platforms like Khan Academy or Coursera, which explain concepts step by step and provide practice problems to help rebuild your confidence.
Dima Vizelman
Software Engineer
29
Answers
Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tel Aviv District, Israel
Updated
Dima’s Answer
Hi Livia,
Take it easy and don't try to relearn everything at once. Start with the basics of algebra, like fractions, equations, and simple functions, and gradually build up from there. The important thing is to be consistent—spending just 20–30 minutes a day is more helpful than long, irregular sessions.
Try using beginner-friendly resources like Khan Academy or Brilliant. They guide you step by step and offer practice right away. Focus on understanding why things work, not just memorizing steps.
It might feel slow at first, and that's completely normal. Math is like a muscle; it gets stronger with practice.
Hope this helps,
Dima
Take it easy and don't try to relearn everything at once. Start with the basics of algebra, like fractions, equations, and simple functions, and gradually build up from there. The important thing is to be consistent—spending just 20–30 minutes a day is more helpful than long, irregular sessions.
Try using beginner-friendly resources like Khan Academy or Brilliant. They guide you step by step and offer practice right away. Focus on understanding why things work, not just memorizing steps.
It might feel slow at first, and that's completely normal. Math is like a muscle; it gets stronger with practice.
Hope this helps,
Dima