I have a problem.
So we've been doing past exams and all lately and almost every question (except probability), i just get stuck and think i don't know how to do this. But when the teacher explains it, it makes sense and is something i could easily do.
My question is, how do i understand what it is that the question is asking me to do? like half the time, i miss that i have to factor first. Basically, i don't know how the question is expecting me to approach it as there can be many ways, but they don't give the correct answer.
ANY advice appreciated
I always underline key words, and most of the time question will literally tell you "find the" "Find the area". just look out for those. Especially in exam 1, 9/10 are always straight forward.
ways to approach a certain question - so what i have seen is that a lot of ppl find it helpful when they have a certain plan written down, or general steps.
e.g. How to solve trig equations - 1. Get the trig function (sin, cos, tan) by itself
2. Find the basic angle. (use exact triangles)
3. If necessary modify the given domain.
4. Determine which quadrant exist within given domain.
5. Decide which quadrant is available. (clue is in the answer+ve or -ve; sin(2x) =+ve or negative number)
6. Solve the equation for the variable: find the angle in relation to the correct quadrant.
Having a plan like this in your head can keep you on track. like spend 10 sec thinking of how you will approach the question, if you can write down information from question and it will start to make sense. Most importantly Dont get scared!! it doesnt bite
hope it helps