<p>I feel like I'm getting to a point in math where I don't actually understand the meaning of what I'm doing, instead I'm just memorizing functions. Is this bad? Will I be okay when math gets really complicated? Are these just two different learning styles or is one superior? any feedback is appreciated, thanks.</p>
<p>Actually understanding the concepts is far, far more important in math, especially in the future. There are an infinite number of functions. While only a small number of them will be commonly used, the types of functions used do differ from practice to practice, and getting the concepts right will make it a lot easier for you to appreciate every new function you learn (so that you can generalize and extend concepts)</p>
<p>I think its important that you can describe physical things (change) as a function of time. Using a function to describe stuff. Thats a skill thats real handy.</p>
<p>of course understanding is alot more important, but in the end you're just doing math, so I just memorize it all.</p>
<p>mj93</p>
<p>Are you a math major? </p>
<p>Does your major directly involve math? </p>
<p>Or, are you a History major or something like that? </p>
<p>I think, as a math geek, that there comes a time where all of us at University come across something we do not really understand when it comes to our studies. </p>
<p>With Math, one can study double time and catch back up for sure. However, you really should at least try to understand the concepts. Once something deviates from what you have memorized when it comes time to take a test, you will be up a high creek without a paddle. </p>
<p>I think that the old adage: "Repetition is the mother of skill" ... would be applicable in your situation. You have to start drilling things consistently and stay on top of the more comprehensive aspects of math way before your fellow classmates do. </p>
<p>For example, work things hard and start going back and reviewing for the mid term weeks before your fellow classmates. Do the same thing for the final also. Lastly, use your professor's office hours. Bring your completed homework with you and ask your professor about a thing or two. It will be worth it. </p>
<p>Planning ahead and working along with your Professor a bit will pay off handsomely come finals time and stuff.</p>
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[quote]
I feel like I'm getting to a point in math where I don't actually understand the meaning of what I'm doing, instead I'm just memorizing functions. Is this bad? Will I be okay when math gets really complicated? Are these just two different learning styles or is one superior? any feedback is appreciated, thanks.
[/quote]
Chances are you're not a math major - so no, it doesn't really matter.</p>
<p>Most jobs don't really require understanding of math.</p>
<p>I'm in HS.</p>
<p>thanks for the advice mildred.</p>