Study skills across different topics/subjects

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around study skills and techniques for learning math and physics, particularly for individuals who find these subjects challenging compared to language-based subjects like English. Participants explore various methods to improve comprehension and engagement with mathematical concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in understanding equations and theorems due to the complexity of symbols, contrasting this with their ease in English.
  • Another participant suggests that visualizing equations and theorems might help, proposing that the individual could be a visual learner.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the importance of practice, recommending repeated problem-solving and familiarization with unfamiliar symbols.
  • One approach proposed involves translating equations into English to better understand the meaning behind the symbols, which could aid in writing proofs.
  • Another participant inquires about specific symbols causing confusion, suggesting that understanding the vocabulary and grammar of mathematics is crucial for effective learning.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple strategies for improving understanding of math and physics, but there is no consensus on which method is most effective. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants' suggestions depend on individual learning styles and may not universally apply. The discussion does not resolve which techniques are most effective for overcoming challenges in math and physics.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals struggling with math and physics who are looking for alternative study techniques, particularly those who excel in language-based subjects.

dorkymichelle
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I have a hard time with math and physics. Part of the problem is its hard for me to decipher equations and theorems with so many symbols. My best subject is English, reading and writing comes very naturally for me, but I also find it very boring and tedious.
Do you guys have any suggestions on how one technique of learning English or other subject can be used in learning math-based subjects?
It seems my brain can't interpret math like it can with language = /
 
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If your biggest problem is, as you put it, deciphering equations and symbol-laden theorems, perhaps you should try thinking about them another way. As you read an equation or theorem, try to construct a corresponding mental image--you might just be a visual learner.
 
Practice, practice and practice some more. Do every problem set 3 times at least. Look up symbols that you're unfamiliar with. Just keep putting in effort, and it'll pay off.
 
One approach is to write the equations out in English. Try to figure out what the symbols really mean (not just as instructions to do something). Get a good 'translation' reflex going in your mind, so that it becomes more like a language.

This will also help a lot if you are needing to write proofs.
 
May I know which kind of symbols you're having troubles with?? Maybe we can suggest a way to see these symbols differently...

Mathematics is also a language, really. You need to know the vocabulary and grammar of the symbols and of the terms, before you can write and read them efficiently. But practise WILL make perfect!
 

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