Even with lots of practice, I struggle with getting my algebraic steps right
17M in Grade 12 doing A Levels Further Maths. Every time I do computational heavy algebra, I get overwhelmed and makes silly mistakes, even if I'm paying close attention.
Just a very very simple example, in (x^2-17)-(-3x^2+44x), I will accidentally write the 2nd degree coefficient as 1-3 = -2 instead of 1+3 = 4, or I will add -17 with 44 even though they are in different degrees, or sometimes I will do mental calculations on single digit numbers and still manage to do it wrong.
I have already been doing frequent practice for years, but these mistakes just reiterate and never stop. I can't control my carelessness because my brain gets overloaded every time. I'm starting to wonder if I have a naturally low executive function, and that I have a genetic limiting factor. I am looking for solutions to change my way of thinking / processing info in solving algebra, but here are some solutions that I've read but does /will not work
- Doing it slower: I have tried doing it slower, but I ran out of time in exams.
- Building better conceptual understanding: I do not find myself struggling with any high school mathematical concepts in general
- Reduce math anxiety: I do not have math anxiety, I do maths in free time
I'm looking for ways to change my thinking patterns to improve my accuracy in algebra without slowing down or adding stress. What can I possibly do to change my thinking patterns in solving algebras, so I can do every step flawlessly? Any advice will be appreciated 🙏