Tips for Studying Mathematics 5
by Ronnie Maartens
Mathematics is all about practice! The amount you practice = the mark you get!
Tip for Paper 1
When studying Sequences we have a handful of formulas to memorize and then lots of practice needed to see when and how to use each formula. You can use the following guideline to determine which formula to use.
Is the pattern between consecutive terms …
• Adding or subtracting the same number = Arithmetic sequence.
• Multiplying or dividing the same number = Geometric sequence.
• Only the same in the second difference = Quadratic sequence.
• Powers, roots or a combination of
operations = Here you need to be creative and construct your our formula.
Read your question carefully to see whether you need to use the sum-formula or nth-term
formula.
Tip for Paper 2
Last week we focused on the proofs of the
geometry theorems. This week we will focus on the application of the theorems in Euclidean Geometry. We first summarize all of the theorems and properties with their associated graphs and reasons under the headings (1) Angles and lines, (2) Triangles, (3) Quadrilaterals, and (4) Circles.
The trick now is pattern recognition. Given a question, try to recognize shapes that are similar to those in your summary. If they look the same, chances are you are going to use that theorem or property. This recognition becomes quicker and more accurate with lots of practice.
Next week: Tips on studying Calculus, Cubic Graphs and Measure of Dispersion.
