What do I get if I study math?
This is one question you might ask, especially when you dislike math or when you find it too difficult to understand a problem. You might even think about this again when doing your math homework becomes harder than waking up for school every morning. Your uncertainty can influence your attitude about and performance in math. To avoid this from happening, here are three basic reasons why learning math is an important part of your education.
- Logical and Critical Thinking
Math teaches logic and order. You can expect a mathematical equation to have a specific outcome, and precise steps must be done to get that result. The discipline of mind that you develop through math can be used in everyday life. You learn how to think using present and past knowledge, plus you learn how to manipulate and make use of knowledge in different ways and forms. Math also helps you develop and practice critical-thinking skills. An example of this is when you must explain how you solved a complex problem or describe a formula’s ideas.
- Life Skills
Almost everything you do daily has a hint of math related to it. You can even say that it is next to impossible to live an independent life without basic math skills. You begin to learn about money and simple addition in the early years when you want to buy a few pieces of candy, and later on, you begin to understand and calculate percentages and fractions when you want to share food with friends. You need these skills to perform other basic daily tasks, too – like following a recipe, deciding whether or not an item on sale is a good deal, and managing a budget, among other things.
- Future Studies and Career
As you advance through school, you will continue to study math – be it easy or advanced. Developing the skills needed for it early on allows you to master math quickly and gives you more time to focus on other subjects that you find more difficult. Also, even the simplest and non-math related jobs make use of math in subtle ways. If you become skilled at math, you can aim for prolific careers such as engineering, medicine, and research. All these involve an advanced level of math and a great deal of achievement and recognition.
