Math is often seen as the hardest subject in school. Despite its importance in science, technology, and everyday life, many students feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even fearful when facing numbers and equations.
But why is math so difficult to understand?
The reasons go beyond formulas – they include how math is taught, how our brains process abstract ideas, and how emotions like anxiety affect learning.
- Very High Abstraction
Math often involves symbols, logic, and concepts that don’t relate directly to the real world.
According to Stanford’s Prof. Keith Devlin, “Students struggle with math because it requires abstract thinking—something the brain needs time and support to develop.”
Abstract thinking is a skill that does not come overnight and necessitates time and proper learning plans.
- Lack of Contextual Approach
It becomes challenging for many students because math is often taught as a series of mechanical operations rather than as a thinking tool.
“When we present math as a set of fixed methods, we limit students’ understanding. Math should be about creativity and making sense of ideas,” Professor Jo Boaler of Stanford said in an interview with Edutopia.
Without context, students cannot grasp the actual applicability of math lessons, at least in our daily lives or the workplace.
- Math Anxiety
Math anxiety is a common condition that affects millions of students. When someone feels anxious about numbers or math problems, their brain’s ability to process information can decrease dramatically.
Researcher Sian Beilock from the University of Chicago found that: “Math anxiety can create a response in the brain similar to physical pain. It disrupts the working memory, which is essential for solving problems.”
Deep breathing, positive affirmations, and step-by-step thinking can help reduce this anxiety during study or exams.
- Problems in the Teaching System
Traditional teaching methods that overemphasize correct answers and speed often worsen the student experience. In a report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), it states that:
“Instruction focused primarily on procedures without meaning does not improve mathematical literacy.”
A curriculum that does not build conceptual understanding causes students to memorize formulas without knowing why they are used.
- Lack of Self-Confidence and Growth Mindset
Some students feel that math ability is something fixed: either you can do it or you can’t do it. This contradicts the findings of psychologist Carol Dweck, who points out that:
“Students who believe their abilities can be developed-what we call a ‘growth mindset’-do better in math and learn from mistakes.”
That is, the belief that they can learn and develop is much more important than mere “talent”.
Over the years, digital solutions have begun to help students understand math more interactively. Visual learning apps, videos explaining concepts, and simulations of contextual problems are proven to improve understanding.
Platforms such as Khan Academy, Desmos, and GeoGebra offer new approaches to teaching math. This proves that flexible and adaptive approaches can make the subject more welcoming and enjoyable.
Math isn’t just difficult because of numbers or equations – it’s often the way we experience it that makes it hard. But with a supportive environment, relevant context, and the belief that anyone can improve, math can shift from fear to fascination.
With the right tools and mindset, no student has to feel defeated by math.
