Homework strategies to improve problem solving skills

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SUMMARY

To improve problem-solving skills in math and physics, students should balance their approach between medium-challenging problems and a few very hard problems. Engaging with approximately 10 medium-challenging problems fosters thought and understanding, while tackling 2-3 hard problems deepens comprehension but requires more time. Students are encouraged to warm up with easier problems before progressing to harder ones and should seek assistance from teachers when encountering difficulties. This strategy promotes a deeper learning experience rather than merely completing routine exercises.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of problem-solving techniques in mathematics and physics
  • Familiarity with course expectations and recommended exercises
  • Ability to self-assess problem difficulty and learning needs
  • Basic communication skills for seeking help from instructors
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective problem-solving strategies in mathematics
  • Explore techniques for tackling complex physics problems
  • Learn about time management strategies for balancing coursework
  • Investigate resources for seeking academic assistance, such as tutoring services
USEFUL FOR

Students in mathematics and physics courses, educators seeking to enhance teaching methods, and anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in STEM subjects.

Howers
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Just a question... to learn math/physics, is it better to do ~10 medium-challenging problems that invoke some thought, or doing 2-3 really hard problems that require deep thought and lots of time. Up to now I've been doing both, but it just isn't possible to keep up with UT's supplementary problems... I'm 2 weeks behind in many courses because of my stubborn attempt to do so. It seems schools don't value learning so much as rapid routine.

So what do I do? A bunch of routine calculations and some moderate problems or the really hard ones?
 
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depends on what you feel. I usally warm up with some easy ones, then intermediate and try to do as many "really hard" problems as i can. But it depends on what level the course is, and what exercises is recomended by the teacher and so on.

Just feel for yourself, but you should aim for the thoughest ones. And if you get stuck, ask your teacher for help. If you never run into problems, then you never learn something is my philosophy :)
 

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