I am both a long-time student of Mathematics and now a tutor of the subject. One thing that was made very clear to me as a beginning Math student (and that was many years ago) is that every step in learning Math is a building block to the next step.
With that being the case, it is essential to learn each step fully before moving to the next step. As an illustration, it is necessary to gain a very strong command of the Arithmetic of fractions and decimals before moving on too Algebra. While it is simple to solve for 5x + 2 = 12, it is a different story for 2/5x +3/7 = 12. Likewise, solving for 5x + 2 = 12 is the step to solving 7x² +12x -74 = 52.
On a larger scale, learning Arithmetic is the precursor to Algebra which leads to Geometry which leads to Trigonometry and then on to Calculus. This trail is essential for success at the higher level and the journey may take years. It usually does.
The other important practice in learning Mathematics is to practice with repetitions of problems. Most Math textbooks I have worked with over the years offer just enough practice problems for the student to grasp the concept of a particular chapter before moving on. It is really necessary to work all of the problems in a chapter before moving on to the next chapter. I compare this to physical exercise. You have to put in the work to achieve success!
Happy Calculating!
