Approaching Math Questions
The best way to approach a math question is to initially
ignore the answer choices and to come up with your own answer using
the information provided in the question. By formulating an answer
on your own, you can avoid being influenced in the wrong direction
by incorrect but appealing answer choices.
Here’s the process for answering questions:
Read the question without paying attention to the
sure you understand what the question is asking, and have a plan
for finding the answer.
the question as if there were no answer choices.
your answer to the answer choices given.
in the appropriate bubble on the answer sheet.
Following this method simply insures that you will actively
engage with each problem. When you write essays, teachers often
tell you to write an outline first, since a quick outline can help
you organize your thoughts and actually save you time by letting
you see where you need to go. Think of this method as providing
you with a tiny outline for each math question. When you read the
question and take a moment to make sure you know what it’s asking,
you are building an outline in your head of how to solve it. In
the long run, this will cut down on wrong paths and dead ends and
save you time.