As a math teacher with over 20 years of experience, I have seen many students struggle with the subject. While math can be challenging, it’s important to remember that with hard work, dedication, and persistence, anyone can become proficient in math.

It Still Takes 10,000 Hours to Become an Expert

Despite a 2019 article in Business Insider, the 10,000-hour rule still applies to almost anyone who is acquiring a complicated skills, like playing the piano or learning mathematics. This is one concept that I continually share with my math students.

Originally studied by psychologist K. Anders Ericcson, Malcolm Gladwell popularized the 10,000-hour rule in his book Outliers. An older 2007 study published in the Harvard Business Review titled “The Making of an Expert” affirmed consistently and overwhelmingly that experts are always made, not born.

At any rate, the 10,000-hour rule states that it takes approximately 10,000 hours of deliberate practice to master a skill. That’s a solid 2000 hours a year (40 hours a week for 50 weeks) for 5 years. This is probably why educators don’t reach their career rate until after 10 years of practice. In other words, if you want to become an expert in math, you need to be willing to put in the time and effort.

So, how can you apply the 10,000 hour rule to your math studies? Here are three key takeaways:

1. Pay attention; put the phone down.

The first step to becoming proficient in math is to pay attention in class. This means actively listening to the teacher, taking copious notes, and participating in class discussions. It’s also important to minimize distractions, such as putting your phone away and avoiding other electronic devices.

Lesson time is the best time to ask questions. The content is fresh on the brain, and it’s important to strike while the iron is hot. I think that students often think they’ll check something out later, or ask a classmate. But when they forget, the moment is lost.

2. Do the work (i.e., practice deliberately)

Simply attending class and taking notes is not enough to master math. To apply the 10,000-hour rule, you need to engage in deliberate practice. This means setting specific goals, working on your weaknesses, and seeking feedback from your teacher or tutor. It also means doing extra practice problems outside of class and reviewing material regularly. That is, do you homework!

3. Never give up and be persistent

Math can be frustrating at times, and it’s easy to get discouraged when you don’t understand something right away. However, it’s important to remember that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. By persisting through challenges, seeking help when needed, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can continue to improve and eventually master the subject.

In conclusion, the 10,000-hour rule is a powerful concept that can help math students understand the importance of hard work, dedication, and persistence. By paying attention, doing the work, and never giving up, anyone can learn math skills. As a math teacher, it’s my job to encourage and support my students as they work towards mastering this challenging but rewarding subject.

Until next time…

Remember that success is a planned event. Believe in yourself.

Pay attention, do the work, and don’t give up!

And don’t forget to check out my new YouTube channel!

www.youtube.com/@PlanetNumeracy