How to Overcome Math Fear?
Keywords: Overcome math fear, How to overcome fear of mathematics, Math anxiety solutions, Easy math learning tips, Confidence in math, How to love math, Math motivation for students, Math study tips
How to Overcome Math Fear?
Introduction:
In educational settings, individuals may experience specific forms of test and performance anxiety linked to a knowledge domain. Unquestionably, the most prominent of these is math fear. Math fear is a widespread problem across all ages across the globe.
Fear of mathematics is one of the most common struggles for
students worldwide—whether in Pakistan, the UK, or the USA. Research shows that over 70% of students suffer from math
anxiety. But Islam teaches us that for every difficulty, there is a
solution, and seeking knowledge is an act of worship. Allah
عَلَّمَ الإِنسَانَ مَا لَمْ يَعْلَمْ
“He taught man that which he knew not.” (Surah Al-‘Alaq 96:5)Hadith: “The best among you are those who learn and teach
knowledge.” (Bukhari)
Math fear
Mathematical fear, also known as math phobia, is a feeling of tension and fear that interferes with the manipulation of numbers and the solving of multiplicative problems in daily life and academic situations.
Arithmophobia is an extreme fear of numbers. People may feel
afraid of all numbers or only specific numbers. Another name for arithmophobia
is numerophobia.
Many adults and children feel worried or stressed when faced
with math. Some of us also have physical symptoms, such as a racing
heartbeat, feeling hot and flustered, or sweating.
Math anxiety, or a fear of math, is common, and although it
can limit performance in certain situations and contexts, it’s not linked to
intelligence or ability. In one study involving children, most of those with
high math anxiety scored normal to high results on curriculum math tests.
Many students claim not to like math. However, for some, the math issue is more than simply disliking algebra or fractions. For some students, doing math can cause negative emotions like fear of failure. This harms their ability to perform. This is known as “math fear.”
What Causes Math Anxiety?
Major causes of math anxiety include:
- The pressure caused by time limits on tests
- The fear of public embarrassment
- Influence of teachers
Symptoms of Math fear
If your child seems to be struggling with their math grades,
look for the following symptoms of math anxiety:
1. Unusual nervousness when doing or thinking about math
2. Passive behaviour
3. A feeling of being alone
4. A feeling of permanency
5. Lack of confidence
6. Panic during tests or when called on to answer questions
The classroom becomes a major source of stress for students, especially when they are taking a test or expected to contribute in class.
How to Overcome Math Fear—Simple Steps That Really Work 
As a teacher at one of the best international schools, I strongly believe that no subject is easy or hard; it is all about aspirations. If you want to achieve it, no one can stop you. Here are some key points that can help you overcome math fear:
Be positive:
We become what we think about—it’s absolutely
true. If math has been your weak subject, then at some point in time, you must
have said that you fear math. Rather, if you had tried it positively, the story
would have been different. Just remember, the one who falls and gets up is
stronger than the one who never tried. Henceforth, be optimistic and try again.
Self-trust:
Osho once said, “The only thing that matters in
life is your own opinion about yourself.” For example, even if you fail to
achieve your target, don’t lose hope; instead, ask yourself to keep trying. If
a tortoise can win a race, why can’t you?
Compare yourself:
Sounds awkward, right? Compare yourself to
yourself, not to others. Compare your efforts today to those you made
yesterday. Make sure whatever time you are spending on the subject is
increasing each day. In addition to that, remember not to look at others. There
is no comparison between the sun and the moon; they both shine when it’s their
time.
Practice:
Practice and exposure to new challenges involve
understanding how all the pieces of an entire concept fit together. The
knowledge gained through practice applies to new learning situations. This way,
learning stays with students for life. Practice brings active, constructive,
and long-lasting learning.
Reflect:
APJ Abdul Kalam once said, “Don’t fear facing
failure in the first attempt, because even the most successful math starts with
'zero' only.” No one is immune to making mistakes—we are human, after all!
“Making a mistake” is not the same thing as “failing,” so when you make a
mistake, reflect on it and fix it.
“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth are signs for those who reflect.” (3:190)
Curiosity and reflection make learning stronger.
Repeat:
Repetition is important and essential in the learning process. Repeating all the above-mentioned steps will surely help you improve your interest in the subject.
Understand That Math Is a Language, Not a Monster
Math is not a monster to be scared of; it’s a beautiful language that explains how the world works. Just like words help us talk and share thoughts, numbers help us describe patterns, shapes, and problems. When we understand math as a language, it becomes easier, friendlier, and even enjoyable. Math is a universal language—every symbol and sign has meaning. When you start reading equations as “sentences,” fear slowly disappears.
“We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an so that you may understand.”
(Surah Yusuf 12:2)
Allah made every form of knowledge understandable—math is no exception.
Start Small—One Concept a Day
From basic calculations to complex problem-solving, math is a crucial tool that helps students in their daily lives. However, for many students, math can be a source of anxiety, boredom, and frustration. The idea of making math fun again may seem like a daunting task, but it is possible with the right approach. Here are some strategies that you can employ to make math enjoyable and engaging for students of all ages.
How to Make Math Fun Again
1. Incorporate
games and puzzles
2. Use
real-life examples
3. Make use
of technology
4. Encourage
group work
5. Use
humour
Take one small topic at a time—like fractions or simple
algebra.
Small daily progress helps remove fear and builds
consistency.
Mathematics is an essential subject that forms the
foundation of many aspects of life.
Hadith: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those done regularly, even if small.” (Muslim)
Pray Before You Study
Always start your study with a short prayer. Say Bismillah and ask Allah ﷻ to help you understand. Allah says:
رَّبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا
“My Lord, increase me in knowledge.” (Surah Taha 20:114)
When you pray, your heart feels calm and your mind opens. It brings barakah and helps you focus. Remember, all knowledge comes from Allah, and He gives success to those who ask Him.
How can you help students love math?
Math is often seen as a subject that students either love or dread. Many students struggle with math, not because they lack ability, but because they perceive it as difficult, abstract, or unrelated to their daily lives. However, helping students love math is possible with the right approach. Here are some strategies to help students develop a positive relationship with math.
9 Strategies to Help Students Love Math
1. Make Math Relevant to Everyday Life
2. Encourage a Growth Mindset
3. Use Games and Interactive Tools
4. Personalize Learning Approaches
5. Provide Positive Role Models
6. Break Down Complex Problems
7. Turn Struggles into Learning Opportunities
8. Foster Collaborative Learning
9. Celebrate Progress and Small Wins
Helping students develop a love for math requires patience, creativity, and encouragement. By making math relevant, engaging, and accessible, parents can help their children build confidence and enjoy the learning process. With the right strategies, every student has the potential to succeed in math and appreciate its importance in everyday life.
Conclusion
Math fear is a complex phenomenon with many unfavorable outcomes. It has a global influence, affecting people of all ages and being linked to lower math achievement and more pessimistic views of the subject. Our goal in this study was to give a comprehensive overview of the literature on math anxiety, focusing on the factors that contribute to the problem, its repercussions, and the most promising treatments currently available. By putting forth this fresh perspective on math phobia and addressing some key open questions, we can help solve the problem. Math fear is not a lifelong problem—it’s just a mindset. When you combine small steps, fun learning, faith, prayer, and consistency, you’ll see how easily Allah turns fear into confidence.
> “Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” ( 94:6)
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