College and University Blog
Study Skills for Math and Science
Learning mathematics and science often presents unique challenges when it comes to studying. The disciplines of mathematics and science communicate content using new language and many symbols, are theory oriented, and often require the mastery of prerequisite concepts as a base for acquiring new knowledge.
A College math class meets less often and covers material at about twice the pace than a high school course does. You are expected to absorb new material much more quickly. Tests are probably spaced farther apart and cover more material. Your instructor may not even check your homework. Science courses can be very challenging for new college students, especially non-science majors.
Math courses include factual information (declarative knowledge) and theorems, formulas for equations, and problem-solving steps (procedural knowledge). You can use elaborative rehearsal techniques to memorize declarative knowledge; procedural knowledge requires repetition of problem-solving steps and application of theorems and formulas. Science courses include subjects such as biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, environmental science, and physics. Science often uses inductive arguments; they present observable experiments, evidence, or proof to arrive at a conclusion. Understanding science often involves hands-on, personal laboratory demonstrations, experiments, or observations. Emphasis is on understanding how parts relate to the whole concept or framework. Similar to mathematics, science contains both declarative and procedural knowledge.
Approaching math and science problems is a two step process. The first step is preparation. The second step is devoted to technique. To the unprepared, a math or science problem may seem scary. With preparation and training, these types of problems can be easy. Use the following techniques to avoid getting stuck:
- Practice
- Divide problems by type
- Know your terminology
- Understand formulas
- Stay current
- Review lecture material and examples immediately after class – Forgetting is greatest within 24 hours. For mathematically based subjects, most info is lost within the first 20 to 60 minutes after learning
- Know when you are in deep water
- When practicing, time yourself
- Use creative visualization
- Make sure you know what is being asked
- Sort the facts
- Set up the problem
- Cancel and combine
- Draw a picture
- Read the problem aloud
- Check your results