It is not a big deal solving a math problem, but how we solve it, differentiates us from others. Its shameful that we are given marks for getting answer and no one cares about how we solved it. But if we are serious about math we need to learn problem solving.
What is problem solving?
It is the way we solve a problem, it is training we give to our mind, the processes that happen in our mind every time we think of putting our pen on the paper.
How to solve problems?
Think hundred times before putting pen on paper. There is no point scribbling on the paper(It is called labour, not math). Everything we put on the paper should be worth hundred points. Always ask if our problem solving approach is the best way of solving the given problem.
Think hundred times before putting pen on paper. There is no point scribbling on the paper(It is called labour, not math). Everything we put on the paper should be worth hundred points. Always ask if our problem solving approach is the best way of solving the given problem.
Guess the mind of the problem setter, spend some time thinking what point he wants to make through the problem posed by him, try to outsmart him by finding an alternate logic. Remember that whether it is the problem setter or us, we are all doing the same math.
The problem setter has a narrow mind because he has already made his decision on the tricks he want to play. We have an open mind and we can find a better solution. Don't blindly think that the solutions given in textbooks to be ultimate. We can give a better solution. In fact every problem setter actually asks selected others to solve his problem, just to confirm his mind. Let us believe in ourselves, not in textbooks.
A teacher of mine used to say that his solutions has his signatures all over them and even if we copy he will know it. Let us have our own style.
A teacher of mine used to say that his solutions has his signatures all over them and even if we copy he will know it. Let us have our own style.
Coming back to problem solving maths, whenever we are given a problem, calmly think for some time so as to find the best method to solve it. This is not a waste of time, in fact it will save our time(because we are solving with the best and correct method possible).
While solving the problem, be cunning. Let us not strain our minds much, just find easier ways so that we can bypass many of the intermediate steps. Be logically sound. Give proper arguments. Let us not panic even if we don't get the answer because in our exam it's not the answer, but it is the method that counts.
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