How should I do my math homework?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best practices for completing math homework, specifically regarding the use of graph paper versus lined paper for graphing tasks in Calculus. Participants explore the implications of their choices on grading and organization, as well as practical considerations for obtaining graph paper.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest using graph paper exclusively for graphing tasks to avoid switching between different types of paper, while others argue for using lined paper for non-graphing exercises.
  • There are differing opinions on whether it is more cost-effective to print graph paper or to purchase it from stores, with one participant expressing skepticism about the affordability of printing.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential difficulty for teachers in grading assignments that mix lined and graph paper, with suggestions to clearly indicate question numbers and references to where graphing questions can be found.
  • Some participants share personal experiences of using graph paper for all assignments, citing ease of use and organization as benefits.
  • Recommendations include stapling assignments together and ensuring clarity in the presentation of problems to aid in grading.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of opinions on the use of graph paper versus lined paper, with no clear consensus on the best approach. Some advocate for a mixed approach, while others prefer using graph paper exclusively.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various sources for obtaining graph paper, including school supply stores and office supply stores, but do not reach a definitive conclusion on the best option. The discussion reflects a range of personal preferences and experiences without resolving the underlying questions about grading and organization.

lLovePhysics
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Well for my Calculus homework, I have to graph only on graph paper. Should I just do everything on graph paper so I don't have to switch from graph to line and then back again? I'm having a hard time figuring out which way is best because the teacher will take off points for not graphing on graph paper!

Btw. is it cheaper to print your own graph paper or buy it from stores? Does anyone know where they sell graph paper that has boxes on both sides? Thanks.
 
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lLovePhysics said:
Well for my Calculus homework, I have to graph only on graph paper. Should I just do everything on graph paper so I don't have to switch from graph to line and then back again? I'm having a hard time figuring out which way is best because the teacher will take off points for not graphing on graph paper!

That is not complicated. Use graph paper for graphs; use other paper for exercises which do not need graphs. Arrange other work or related work according to your teacher's instructions.

Btw. is it cheaper to print your own graph paper or buy it from stores? Does anyone know where they sell graph paper that has boxes on both sides? Thanks.
Usually, the best place to find commercially produced graph paper is your college or university bookstore. Some "quadrile" graph paper is double-sided. There used to be log-log and semi-log paper which was available as single-sided, but other sources may exist maybe being double sided - you'll need to check.

Microsoft Windows may have a graph paper program, but I can't remember which subprogram of Windows has this. You can also find graphpap or "graphpaper", a freeware graph paper program for Windows , which permits you to make various kinds of graph paper styles.
 
I find it very unlikely that you could print graph paper for less than it would cost to buy commercially produced paper. We pay through the nose for printer ink at the consumer level.
 
symbolipoint said:
That is not complicated. Use graph paper for graphs; use other paper for exercises which do not need graphs. Arrange other work or related work according to your teacher's instructions.


Doesn't that make it hard for the teacher to grade then? I would have, for example, #1-10 on line, #11-20 on graph, then #21-40 on the same lined paper, then #41-50 on the same graph paper and so on. Wouldn't the teacher have to look back and forth to follow the numbers?
 
Bump, anyone?
 
lLovePhysics said:
Doesn't that make it hard for the teacher to grade then? I would have, for example, #1-10 on line, #11-20 on graph, then #21-40 on the same lined paper, then #41-50 on the same graph paper and so on. Wouldn't the teacher have to look back and forth to follow the numbers?

lLovePhysics said:
Bump, anyone?

Just use your common sense. You're not going to be marked down for using graph paper for graph questions and lined paper for other questions. Plus, teachers aren't stupid-- I'm sure they'll be able to follow the questions as you write above.
 
Well you always staple your assignments together right? Just use lined paper for all the normal questions and use graph paper for the others and staple them to the back of the lined paper. I am sure markers have seen it all and know to expect the graphed questions at the back...
 
I do everything in graph paper. You can find it at any school supplies store.
 
I do everything on graph paper also. I used graph paper for every assignment all through undergrad.
 
  • #10
You can find graph paper at any office supply store as well. It's really not that rare.

When I was in school, I did all my homework on graph paper, because it was just easier than switching back and forth. I also took notes on graph paper in classes that involved a lot of graphs or diagrams. Again, it was easier, and kept my notes neater.

If you just put all the graphing questions on graph paper and the rest of the questions on lined paper, the one suggestion I have would be to include all the question numbers on the lined paper, and put a note next to the number of each graphing question like "see graph paper for problem." That way, the teacher doesn't get confused thinking you've skipped problems. They *should* have the sense to see there is both lined and grid paper stapled together, but if they're grading while tired, it would be easier to let them know you've done the problems out of order to conserve paper, so all the regular problems are on one page, and the graphing problems on another.
 

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