We are sure that more than one student has wished that we could travel back in time and prevent someone from inventing Math so that we will not have to do difficult homework and take challenging tests.

Unfortunately, even if time travel existed, we might not be able to halt the pervasiveness of Math.

Every day, we need Math when we perform real-life skills like go shopping, cook, track our finances, take the train, travel, play video games, drive, and tell the time.

Math is not really an invention, and is more of a discovery.

And it was developed slowly over thousands of years with the help of thousands of people across China, India, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Egypt.

The word “Mathematics” finds its roots from the ancient Greek word “μάθημα” (mathēma), which means “that which is learnt” or “knowledge” in English, and Archimedes is credited as the founding father of Mathematics (and physics, engineering, as well as astronomy).

Most researchers agree that around 2,500 years ago, Mathematics in Greece started to eventually become an organized science globally that branched into calculus, algebra, geometry, discrete math, statistics, order theory, trigonometry, and probability.

Following that era, mathematical discoveries have catalysed other mathematicians and scientists in multiple societies around the world to build upon the work of others, constantly expanding our understanding of mathematics and how it can be used to solve mankind’s problems.

Math is a universal language – a powerful tool with the same meaning across the globe.

Our languages and cultures divide our world, but numbers unite us.

Math enables us to work together toward new innovations and ideas.

Mathematics and Science go hand in hand, with Math providing the language and tools for understanding the natural world.

With Math, many of the scientific discoveries – data analysis, mathematical modelling, quantitative reasoning – that have shaped our world became possible.

Mathematics is also indispensable to modern technology – from smartphones, advanced medical devices, to computers, and space exploration.

Programming languages are based on mathematical logic, making Math skills integral for coding and software development.

Engineers use Math to design and optimize everything from expressways to power grids and water systems.

Mathematics plays an influential role in the world of business, from financial analysis, investing, accounting, to marketing research.

If Math does not exist, we will not be able to tell the time, there will be no buildings, no recipes, no transportation, and our shoes will not fit properly.

Indeed, all the comforts that make our lives what they are today will not exist if not for Math.

Math is the science of logic, quantity, order, structure, and arrangement.

Most definitions refer to Mathematics as the only true pure science.

Perhaps the oldest evident proof in of the existence of zero in Mathematics was found in the Bakhshali mathematical manuscript, in India.

It was carbon-dated at the estimated AD 224 to AD 383, and contains the earliest known Indian use of a zero symbol, where zero was used as a dot in the book.

The concept of zero or “sunya” in Sanskrit came from a well-known astronomer and mathematician, Aryabhatta, in the 5th century.

Brahmagupta in the 7th century then described rules for zero, and started using zero in mathematical calculations.

Zero reached China from India, and later reached the Middle East.

In around 773 AD, the mathematician Mohammad ibn-Musa al-Khowarizmi studied and synthesized Indian arithmetic and showed how zero functioned in the system of formulas he called ‘al-jabr’ – which is today known as algebra.

They represented a profound break with previous methods of counting, such as the abacus, and paved the way for the development of algebra.

It was also when the concept of zero reached the Middle East, that an oval shape was given to the number that we know today as the “0” digit and is used as a prime digit in Mathematics.

Math is relevant to wide range of subjects that we take in the PSLE, O Levels/SEC and A Level exams.

This means that a weak understanding of Math can cause students to also struggle in those subjects.

Mathematics is an essential part of the tertiary-level curriculum, whether you want to study Physics, Media, Chemistry, Economics, Sociology, Law, Engineering, Psychology or Business Management.

MATH TEACHES YOU THESE PRACTICAL SKILLS

Math helps you develop intellectual skills in deductive & inductive reasoning, problem-solving, creative thinking, and in computation.

Math is therefore important for all professions, not just for engineers, accountants and mathematicians.

Mathematics helps us identify the knowns and the unknowns, and how to take steps to solve problems.

For example, word problems teach us how to extract the important information, and then manipulate it to find a solution.

Solving Math problems and enhancing our Math proficiencies gives our brain a good workout, keeping it healthy and functioning well.

Often, we sit in Math class wondering when we will ever use these things we are learning.

Studies have found that those with strong Math skills are able to achieve better career success and earn higher incomes that those who are relatively weak in Math.

A strong grasp of Math concepts means more than just having a natural instinct for numbers.

Rather, it helps us see the pathways to a solution.

Equations and word problems need to be scrutinized before we are able to determine the best method for solving them.

This is because Math problems often require us to deviate our reasoning and approach problems in more than one way.

The first (and/or second) process we try might not work and often, there is more than one way to get to the right answer.

We need flexibility and creativity to think of new pathways to the solution.

And just like anything else, this way of thinking is strengthened with practice – which will improve investigative skills, resourcefulness and objective dexterity.

It is therefore not surprising that when we develop our Math skills, we at the same time also improve our logical and analytical thinking abilities.

Math skills open up many high-quality career possibilities.

By learning to become users of advanced Math skills, students understand:

• The development of transferable techniques that include investigative, problem solving, research, decision-making, and analytical aptitude
• You will gain analytical dexterity, have an enquiring mind, and sharpen the ability to think logically
• The thorough and methodical approach to how you learn, assimilate and present important information
• How to deepen your organizational aptitude to plan and carry out projects
• How to explain results clearly and concisely
• Understand how Math concepts relate to each other

SOME CHALLENGES WHEN STUDYING MATH

Imagine if our world is without Mathematics.

Numbers are the basic foundation and building blocks in every sphere of our life, and we cannot live without Math.

There wouldn’t be any advancements in science or technology.

Math is a subject that is applied to every field and profession, and makes our lives easier.

Many students experience roadblocks and hurdles throughout their Math education from P1 to JC2.

Even as adults, we are afraid to fail.

Our children also similarly want to avoid failing, especially with the many other pressures that school can bring.

Algorithms and complex Math problems can make any child (and many adults) feel fearful.

Math anxiety is a common phenomenon.

When the pace of the class moves a bit faster than they can keep up with, or if the concepts are just too abstract and complicated for them to understand, they will need more time to learn and master those concepts.

If a teacher’s style does not match well with how we learn, Math class in school can be distressing.

BENEFITS OF STUDYING MATH  

We study Math to pass the next quiz or final exams, so that we can move on to the next course in primary school, secondary school, junior college, or university.

Mathematics is an essential discipline in today’s world.

It is a dynamic tool for understanding the world around us and shapes our viewpoint of the important issues facing us as individuals, families, businesses, and nations.

All of us need some level of proficiency in Math.

Most professions use Math so that they can perform their jobs better, and to get ahead in their careers.

Math has evolved from the contributions of thinkers throughout the ages and across the globe, to help solve problems.

It gives us a way to understand patterns, to quantify relationships, and to predict the future.

Math helps us understand the world — and we use the world to understand Math.

Algebra can explain how quickly water becomes contaminated and how many people in the developing world might become sickened on a yearly basis when they drink that tainted water.

A study of geometry can describe the science behind architecture and town planning throughout the world.

Statistics and probability can estimate casualty tolls from snowstorms, earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural adversities around the world.

It can also predict corporate profits, how diseases spread exponentially and then decay/fade, and how previously endangered animals can perhaps repopulate.

All these mean that Math is a meaningful and powerful tool for global understanding and communication.

We can use it to make sense of the world and solve complex and real problems.

The world is interconnected, and Math is rightly called the “Universal Language”.

It teaches us to think rationally, to identify and state the problem clearly, to plan the possible solutions, and how to apply the acceptable methods to assess and then solve the problem.

Math is absolutely essential in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

It is also crucial in fields like Economics, social sciences like Psychology and Sociology, as well as the arts and humanities disciplines like Art, Music, and Mass Communications.

We also use numbers and mathematics for leisure and entertainment when we play crossword puzzles, card games, electronic games, and Sudoku.

The logical and quantitative reasoning that we acquire from Math helps us make better decisions.

Learning how to solve the gruelling dilemmas is an expertise that will benefit us throughout our lives.

Having a solid foundation in Math is an essential skill, no matter what academic degree we want to pursue.

It is this same quantitative capability that is necessary for success in life as well.

WHAT REWARDING CAREERS/SPECIALTY AREAS REQUIRE SKILLS IN MATHEMATICS?

Mathematicians use mathematical theory, computational techniques, algorithms, and the latest computer technology to solve economic, scientific, engineering, physics, and business problems.

Math is about problem-solving and critical thinking, and is at the core of many industries, including science, technology and business.

Through Math, we analyze data, identify patterns and develop innovative solutions to fast-paced complex problems.

These skills are essential and are highly valued in finance, healthcare and technology.

Employers love to hire Math majors because they possess outstanding analytical skills, pay close attention to details, and can solve problems using rigorous and methodical processes.

After all, in every job, there will always be problems to solve, obstacles to overcome, and challenges to face.

Mathematicians use high-level mathematics and technology to develop new mathematical principles, understand relationships between existing principles, and solve real-world problems.

Academic researchers, data scientists and scientific computing analysts use complex Math to answer distinct questions using stochastic models in data science applications and theoretical physics calculations.

Mathematicians also do the following:

• Amplify mathematical comprehension by developing new principles
• Identify previously unknown connections between known mathematical principles
• Create models to rectify practical problems in medicine, business, government, engineering, and the sciences
• Reinforce computational processes and computer codes
• Juxtapose hypotheses derived from models with observations or experiments

Math skills are highly transferable, and can lead to a successful career in various industries that span IT, business development, and the sciences.

Think Mathematics is a rigid and boring subject? Think again.

For students passionate about Math, the career prospects are exciting, extensive, rewarding and diverse with high levels of responsibility, and the potential for good financial income.

Math can certainly open up a lot of opportunities for many of us.

So, which are the best paying jobs that require Math skills?

The following examples often involve working with complex concepts, and a deep understanding how to apply Maths skills.

You can consider some of the many job roles and specialty areas for those with a Math degree:

Actuary, Statistician, Financial Analyst, Data Scientist, Auditor, Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Mechanical Engineer, Economist, Meteorologist, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Cryptographic Vulnerability Analyst, Math Professor, Robotics Engineer, Computer Programmer, Purchasing Manger, Accountant, Investment Banker, Software Engineer, Investment Analyst, Chemist, Research Analyst, Civil Engineer, Scientist, Blockchain Developer, Financial Planner, Commercial Pilot, Information Security Analyst, Mathematician, Algorithm Engineer, Software Developer, Medical Scientist, Data Analyst / Business Analyst, Cryptographer, Supply Chain Manager, Lead Simulation Modelling Engineer, Aeronautical Engineer, Emerging Solutions Director, Chartered Accountant, Astronomer, Programmer, Treasurer, Civil Engineer, Financial Modeler, Insurance Underwriter, Software Development Manager, Information Technology (IT) Director, Market Research Analyst, Web Developer, Sales Director, Project/Program Manager, Computational Scientist, Director of Quantitative Research, Image Scientist, Research Scientist.

From aviation to marketing – and even sound design at concerts – a mastery of Math skills is essential and can offer us the opportunity to innovate, create and earn a great salary.

Math is a multi-faceted and ever-evolving field as there are constantly new questions to answer and challenges to overcome.

Math specialists tend to be predominantly investigative individuals, which means that they are quite inquisitive and curious people that often like to spend time alone with their thoughts.

A career in mathematics offers ample opportunities for growth, innovation and making a real impact on the world.

With a strong foundation in mathematics, you can solve complex problems, make informed decisions and think critically.

Jobs that require Math skills tend to be highly sought after and often are well compensated, providing stability and financial security.

Whether you are interested in theoretical research or practical applications, a career in Math provides the opportunity to engage with challenging and meaningful work every day.

Math will certainly continue to be a vital part of the workforce to help significantly improve people’s daily lives.

HOW TO STUDY MATH  

Beware of rote math teaching that “drills & kills” – which can destroy a student’s interest in Math, or teach them to become a procedural oriented type of student, instead of having a creative and a strong mastery of Math and numbers.

Math is a language.

This means that the earlier you learn Math, the more fluent you will be in Math.

Early Math is just as important as early reading.

A study by the Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences at the University of Washington has shown that early Math skills are a better predictor of academic success than early reading skills.

Why is studying Math difficult?

Math is a progressive subject.

Anything you learn in the beginning of your Math syllabus will be used later in curriculum.

So, you need to really pay attention and understand.

Especially in the beginning.

You will see over and over again the interwoven topics and materials that you had learned before your first Math exam, in subsequent lessons and exams.

This means that you have to get it right from the beginning, or risk being left behind.

If you feel the need to slack off at all or to take a break, do it near the end of the semester/academic year.

It is best that you aim for an A right from the beginning because many top-scoring students find that their grades start to slip when the content gets more complex.

They typically face difficulties in Math when they struggle to grasp foundational concepts, encounter tougher mathematical calculations, fail to make connections between different topics, and find it challenging to engage in abstract and logical reasoning.

The unfamiliarity, volume and speed of information presented in Math can be overwhelming for many students.

The vast expanse of knowledge, intricate terminologies, and the interwoven complexities often pose hurdles.

Many students grapple with the sheer volume of information and the abstract nature of Mathematics.

Reading and understanding extensive material by yourself at home can become intimidating, and this can discourage the pursuit of better grades.

By using the practical and easy tips below, you can master your Math syllabus.

Memorizing basic information is helpful, but real learning comes from conceptual understanding.

Conceptual understanding is the goal.

To achieve this, it is crucial to note:

1. Whatever you learn early in the semester will be used over and over again throughout your syllabus
2. Mathematics is a vast discipline. You learn the basics and build on them, and you also need to switch gears each time you enter into new territory
3. There is always something new to throw into whatever you had learnt and memorized
4. Some memorization is required, but mostly you need to think. You need to get used to working through how something works
5. To put it simply, there is a lot to learn and only a limited time for you to be adequately prepared for your exams
6. Math is hard because you think it is hard. If you think something is difficult, you are setting up yourself to fulfil that expectation. You therefore need to truly believe that you can learn Maths. You may need to learn new study skills and change the way you organize your time, but anyone with the determination to learn Mathematics can do so. Once you succeed, you will gain a deep sense of accomplishment
7. The more times you hear and practice the materials, the easier it will get. Sections and chapters are constructed to highlight and guide you through particularly important concepts, so do revisit the content regularly. This can help you to increase your understanding and retention of the topic
8. If you did not answer any test questions correctly, go back and learn that exact material until you master it. Do this before even more content is covered by your teacher in class
9. See the “big picture”, the hierarchical structure of Mathematical tools
10. Be able to understand how and why Mathematical tools function the way they do
11. Grasp not only the definition of terms but why they are important
12. Do the assigned readings before your teacher covers it in school. Read and take notes on the assigned material before you come to class. This will enhance your understanding of the lecture and make note-taking easier
13. Check your understanding. After reading a section in the book, ask yourself if you could explain the material to your sibling or a friend. Reviewing questions and quizzes at the end of each chapter is also a great way to check your understanding of what you just learned
14. Convert your notes into study aids. When studying for exams, do not simply re-read your notes. Instead, convert your notes into matrices, concept maps or other visual representations of the material. Re-reading your notes is not enough
15. Form a study group. Working with a small group of 3 to 4 students will enhance your learning and comprehension. Teaching others is one of the best ways to learn Mathematics
16. Partner with an admired Math mentor

If you cannot seem to truly understand a concept – even after consulting your notes and the textbook – schedule a meeting with your school teacher or start tuition with a Math tutor from The Best In Singapore.

We equip our students with the how-how to study smart and score big for exams.

The individualized attention and tailored approaches offered by expert private tutors can unravel the intricacies of Maths. This is the transformative benefit of personalized Math tuition in Singapore.

Mathematical principles build on top of one another, so taking the time to fully understand the more basic principles of Math can help you to succeed when learning about the more difficult skills.

With customized guidance, students can navigate through challenging topics, understand complex theories, and foster an enduring curiosity for how Math works.

This demystifies Mathematics and helps you overcome academic hurdles. It also instils a profound passion and curiosity for Maths beyond mere academic obligations.

HOW TO TURN THIS MONTH INTO A SPRINGBOARD FOR SUCCESS IN YOUR NEXT EXAM

Math examinations are a significant milestone, and demonstrate how much of the content you have mastered.

Yet, the complexity of the Maths syllabus can be a demoralizing challenge for many students.

To do well in any exam, we need to rely on discipline, not just motivation.

All top students know that they will not always feel like studying.

Motivation is fickle and can often disappear when your mood changes.

Discipline – on the other hand – means studying even when you don’t feel like it, and even when you do not feel motivated.

Strategic planning and systematic preparation play a formidable role in navigating these hurdles and achieving success in Mathematics.

There are days when you have to force yourself to do the work you need to. No matter how you feel.

And you have to stick to your schedule, despite everything else that is going on around you.

THERE IS A BETTER WAY TO LEARN MATHEMATICS  

Success in Math exams depends on a combination of factors, from extensive understanding to efficient study methods.

• Try to understand patterns.
  The human mind loves categorising information and looking for relationships between the different things we encounter. This is how our minds make sense of the world around us
• Top students make use this way of thinking when it comes to studying as well
• They look at the bigger picture and they look for patterns in the Math syllabus that will help them make sense of different – yet interrelated – topics
• Understanding the bigger picture, and how different topics relate to one another, will help you comprehend, memorise, and recall your work better.
• Try understanding the “why”
• It is not enough to just know “how” to solve a problem or approach an exam question, because you are expected to be able to apply the theory that you had learned
• Top students also know “why” you have to do things in a certain way. Understanding “why” will help you gain a deeper understanding of the work. This will then help you to internalise/absorb it more effectively This is particularly true in the field of Mathematics
• Understanding the theory behind certain things will help you answer unfamiliar questions – not only in your exams, but when you enter the workforce as well.

Adopting a structured study schedule, breaking down the syllabus into manageable sections, and dedicating focused study sessions to each topic significantly enhances comprehension and retention.

TACKLING THE RIGOUR OF MATHEMATICS EXAMS  

Math exams in Singapore are renowned for their depth and complexity, often posing an alarming challenge for students.

The partnership between the Ministry of Education and the University of Cambridge in crafting these examinations based on local requirements and global industry developments in Maths elevates their difficulty level.

Overcoming these challenges demands focused attention, a deep understanding of concepts, and strategic application of knowledge.

IMPORTANCE OF SYSTEMIC STUDYING AND STRATEGIC PREPARATION WITH EXPERT GUIDANCE

Cultivating a habit of regular revision and addressing weak areas play a significant role in mastering Math.

A proven method to do well in Maths examinations is to have access to an experienced tutor in Singapore who is an expert at systematic studying and who is good at simplifying complex Maths concepts.

You will learn mind mapping, and how to create appropriate notes.

Importantly, you will be equipped with the exact key phrases to use for explanations and answers that fastidious exam markers require.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD MATH TUTOR  

One to one Math tuition at home gives you exclusive attention, and caters to your specific needs and pace. 

This personalized touch fosters an environment where complex topics can be explored comprehensively, ensuring a solid foundation in the subject.

A good Math home tutor possesses a unique blend of qualifications, an ability to break down intricate theories into digestible components, and effective teaching methodology.

Your Math tuition teacher has a robust understanding of the content that you want to understand, imparts problem-solving strategies, and instils a sense of curiosity and passion for Mathematics.

Their dedicated guidance helps you to navigate through the labyrinth of complex Math concepts.

KEY INSIGHTS

• Singapore’s best tuition agent, with the most qualified and experienced Math tuition teachers
• Choose from over 13,100 Math tuition teachers who are MOE teachers/experienced tutors with PhD/Master’s/Bachelor’s/university undergraduates
• Teaching pace and material used are tailored to fit your individual needs
• Full attention of Singapore’s best private tuition teachers
• Correct the misconceptions immediately
• Specialty exam preparation
• Exposing our students to all the types of questions would mean they would never be caught off guard in an exam
• Intensive and methodical learning
• Lessons infused with impactful exam techniques
• Attentive, hardworking, committed Math family tutors
• We are here to transform confusion and anxiety into clarity and confidence

You can be a top student too!

Don’t think for a second that there is any real difference between you and a top-achieving student when it comes to what you are capable of.

The only thing standing between you and much better marks is working harder, and working smarter.

So if you want to get to the top of your class, and pass your course with distinction, you just have to cultivate better study habits.

Every student wants to do well.

But those with clear goals are the ones who manage to push themselves a bit further each time.

For each semester and each exam, you have to create a realistic goal for yourself regarding the mark you want to achieve. And each goal should be a just little higher than the previous one.

In a world where the pursuit of knowledge and good grades is inevitable, the choice of the right Math tuition teacher – whether in-person or through online tuition in Singapore – can define the types of grades that you will have over the next 3 months, for your upcoming school assessments, and the national exams.

Effective Math tuition helps you overcome academic hurdles and is a productive gateway to a deeper understanding and profound appreciation for how Mathematics impacts our lives.