Successful math students learn to show their work as they solve problems. Some problems are complex and require record-keeping, so students who learn to show their work on less complicated problems are well-trained to tackle more intense math problems, says Angela Vierling-Claassen, a Lesley University professor of mathematics, at LiberationMath.org. Undisciplined math students are often too lazy to show their work and want to find answers and solutions as quickly as possible. They can often keep up in low-level math classes, but struggle once concepts become more elaborate and advanced. Even though parents and teachers should encourage students to show their work, they can also praise students when they grasp concepts intuitively.
Strong math students learn to double-check their work every time. It's so easy to transpose numbers, forget a sequence, enter incorrect numbers in a calculator or make minor computation errors. Double-checking answers is absolutely crucial for advanced math tests such as the SAT math subject test, according to Sharon Weiner Green, the author of a Barron's SAT math study guide. Undisciplined math students often feel that double-checking work is unnecessary, time-consuming and unproductive, but simple mistakes can cost students valuable points. It might even make a difference between receiving a passing or a failing grade.
Thriving math students aren't afraid to ask for help when they need it. They don't let feelings of embarrassment, incompetence or failure get in the way and proactively seek help when they can't grasp specific math concepts. Once they seek help, they practice similar problems to make sure they fully understand new material. Poor math students don't take time to ask for help from parents and teachers. They often ignore math concepts they don't understand and get behind on their work, leading to further problems as math concepts become more difficult and complex.
Some math students choose not to complete homework assignments, especially if their teacher doesn't grade them. Even though incompletion might not affect their grades directly, it eventually leads to trouble because students aren't sufficiently prepared for tests, quizzes and future concepts. Disciplined math students complete homework assignments, so they aren't caught off-guard during tests. Being disciplined enough to complete math homework assignments also prepares students for college, where most professors don't check daily work. Homework is also essential to passing difficult tests and solving complicated problems.