Knowledge and Hard Work

A's in math are like A's in any other class. They are acquired by hard work and knowledge. There are two reasons people don't get A's in math. Either because they don't understand (the knowledge part), or because they don't try (the hard work). There are simple ways to cure the first and simpler ways to cure the second.

Understanding (The Knowledge Part). If you don't understand something like a lesson or a concept, it's a pretty sure bet that there are people around you who do. you know them, the ones who understand without trying and who get "easy A's" (and probably a little on your nervest). Talk to the people who know what they're doing. They are also usualy ready and willing to explain anything. Never underestimate a teacher's help. If you don't understand something in class, don't wait. Ask right away. Ask until you do understand. Many kids don't want to ask questions, because they think they'll look stupid or feel stupid or the teacher will make them feel stupid. Don't let anyone make you feel dumb, least of all the teachers. It's their job to help you. Remind yourself of that. Some students think if they don't understand something, they can just move on to the next lesson. In other classes this may work, but not in math. Math is cumulative. What you learn now you build on later. If you don't understand a concept now, it will only mess you up in the future. Don't make the mistake of thinking it will just go away. A lot of times there are basic concepts that are stopping kids from fully understanding, and getting that A. Get these concepts. It can be done. Go in for help after school, do whatever you need to do, but make sure you understand the basic ideas of every lesson before moving on to the next. The work now will make everything easier later. 

Trying (The Hard Work). This comes to the second thing that stops students from getting A's: Hard Work. I know it's a nasty word. But you do have to actually try. The myth that you can get "easy A's" in math without actually trying is just that: a myth (for most of us, at least). The number of people getting B's and not A's simply because they don't do their homework is ridiculous. Do the homework. Not only does it count for points, it helps to make the lessons more clear. That's what it's for. Take my firsthand experience and advice. Studying doesn't work if you're not serious, either. Kids will say they studied and be shocked to get C's and B's. But studying while watching television or on the phone is not really studying. Just like reading while playing the piano is not really reading. Set aside a good chunk of time everyday for math-related homework and studying. I know it's hard to do, especially if you're really busy, but that's where the hard part of hard work comes from. Don't give up, though, it's not impossible. These are some ways to get A's, but they are merely tips to help you. Take the ones you like, throw out the ones you don't. Just remember, don't let math scare you simply because it's math. You may have methods or things you do that get you A's in other classes. These can work for math, too. Just do what works for you.