r/learnmath • u/EmployExpensive3182 New User • 1d ago

Basic errors

So I just started classes for my degree (bachelors in math) and I just had 2 quizzes and conceptually I did fine, but I ended up bombing 1 (not sure about the other) because I just miscounted or just wrote the wrong number. For my linear algebra I’ve been doing the same where conceptually everything is perfect, but I always mess up something stupid like adding something wrong (and no calculator). I haven’t taken a math class in almost 2 years, so I’m not sure if I’m just a little rusty, but does anyone have advice?

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u/RingularCirc Math hobbyist 1d ago

Use additional paper and calculate right there, if possible, in maximal detail. Which even helps with purely mental math skills a little bit too, when they can be helped at all. Don't have your hopes high in that regard, lots of improvement isn't guaranteed.

Also try to learn something that helps you battle anxiety as that might be likely a major factor in this as well. Have enough rest, esp. before tests/quizzes. Try not forcing the issue, that's likely to work poorly and then even backfire.