Software to assist with self study?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding software tools that can generate random math problems for self-study purposes. Participants explore various options for generating practice problems across different mathematical topics, including algebra, polynomial long division, geometry, trigonometry, and logic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire for software that can generate a variety of math problems tailored to their study needs, including the ability to focus on areas of difficulty.
  • Another participant suggests a specific website that may offer a solution, but acknowledges they have not tried it yet.
  • A later reply clarifies that the suggested tool does not meet the original request, as it only plays back pre-defined facts rather than generating new problems.
  • Another participant mentions Mathematica for the Classroom as a potential solution, noting its capability to generate practice exercises and solutions, but raises concerns about its high cost for individual users.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on a specific software recommendation, as multiple suggestions are made, but none fully satisfy the original request for problem generation.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations are noted regarding the cost of suggested software and the specific functionalities that may or may not align with the user's needs.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students seeking tools for self-study in mathematics, particularly those looking for software that can generate diverse practice problems.

ncurses
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Greetings.

What would be the easiest way to generate random math problems for me to practice with?
For example, I might want to have five questions that are just basic algebra, five that are polynomial long division, maybe some straight arithmetic thrown in, and perhaps later I could add some harder stuff.
And if I found I had trouble with something, then on the next batch I could throw in some more practice with whatever I had trouble with.

As a bonus, it would be great to have some geometry or trig questions, or even logic or proofs.

I have found some websites which can generate math worksheets, but they seem limited to basic arithmetic.

I could probably hack something together to do this for me, but I am sure software like I describe already exists and there is no reason to re-invent the wheel.

I have been studying for my finals every day for the past few weeks, and for the first time in my life, math no longer scares me, and I actually enjoy doing it.
So, I think between semesters I will continue to practice every day to stay fresh so I can jump right into my next class.
 
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ichi2[dot]net/anki/index.html

Of course replacing the [dot] with .

I came across this recently - have not tried it yet, but looks like it might be what you're looking for.
 
dachikid said:
ichi2[dot]net/anki/index.html

Of course replacing the [dot] with .

I came across this recently - have not tried it yet, but looks like it might be what you're looking for.

Hmm..
That's not really what I was looking for, but thank you.
That just plays back facts that you give it beforehand.

I want something that actually uses a computer to generate math problems.

Of course I googled it before making this post, and I have found some programs, I was just wondering if anyone could make a recommendation.
 
I doubt that this would be a reasonable solution for a single individual because of the high cost, but you could look at Mathematica for the Classroom:

http://www.wolfram.com/products/classroom/

This produce is targeted at school teachers. Just as you say, it can generate practice exercises of specific types along with their solutions. It can also do much more, and it has the full power of Mathematica, which explains the heavy price tag. This is especially justified if you plan to continue your math education.
 
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