5 Tips For Better Problem-Solving in GCSE Maths.

Problem-solving is an important part of GCSE Maths, but it can be hard to know where to start sometimes. Here are our top 5 tips for getting started on problem-solving in maths, from thinking about the question to considering possible solutions, you’ll be able to solve maths problems like a pro in no time at all!

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1) Understand the question.

Part of the process of problem-solving is understanding what you’re being asked to do. In most problems, there are keywords that help you understand the context, units and geometry for example. Underlining these terms can be extremely useful to help you begin problem-solving.

2) Work out what's being asked.

The key to a good answer is your ability to recognise what’s being asked, and then identify the appropriate formula or idea within your knowledge base. No one answer is right – instead, you should pick the approach that allows you to get to the correct answer quickest. If you have time, try explaining how you got your final solution.

3) Work out which bits are important to solve it.

While it might seem like a lot to consider, you can usually break it down by thinking through which bits are important. For example, if you’re told to solve it but don’t know how to work out quadratic equations, then your best bet is to ignore that bit and just solve for what you can. You could also look at what kind of equation it is – is it a hidden quadratic? A simultaneous equation? Or something else entirely? Knowing which type of problem you’re dealing with will help you figure out where to start.

4) Solve the easiest bit first.

Solving a simple, straightforward equation is much easier than solving a complex one. If you have created equations, simplify them first. If it’s a quadratic, factorise it. This saves time and energy, which you can use to concentrate on more difficult problems. One step at a time

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5) Keep checking your answer as you go along.

As soon as you get your answer, check it. Make sure that it makes sense and works out to a certain number. If not, then try something else. You won’t ever find out if your answer is wrong if you don’t check it! Always remember to: check, check and then double-check! Never jump straight to an answer: Before you decide on an answer for a question, make sure that there aren’t any other answers which could work. This will help save time later on when checking over your answers because you won’t have missed anything. Also, it can often be helpful to think about why other answers are possible – for example what happens when we multiply by -1?