This isn't a specific math question. I'm just looking for some tips for my calculus midterm tomorrow. I'm terrible at math and I can't seem to "think outside the box" in order to do problems correctly. I know my stuff but if a teacher throws something a little different or weird on a test I bomb it.

Besides doing a lot of practice problems, which I'm doing today, what are some tips during an exam I could use? (like 1. simplify first, etc etc)

if you have formulas to remember try writing all of those down on the test right when you start testing

What kind of Math are you doing?

I think for any kind of math though, doing problems from the book may be the best way to study for an exam, but what you sound about how "if your teacher throws something diffrent at you, you bomb it" that right there tells me that as much as you do the problems, you really don't know why or what your doing. I think if your teacher is willing to sit down with you, he/she can explain exactly 'why' they are doing what they do, instead of sticking the book and doing problems, cause at that point, all your doing is memorizing, not learning.

I hope this helps.

did you pass on your midterm lmao

Preparing for a calculus midterm can be challenging, especially if you tend to struggle with "out of the box" problems. However, there are some tips you can keep in mind during the exam to help you tackle even the trickiest questions. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Read the entire question carefully: Make sure to grasp the problem requirements and identify the given information. Pay close attention to any specific constraints mentioned.

2. Understand the problem: Try to visualize the problem or create a mental model of what is happening. This can often help you see connections or identify the appropriate mathematical techniques to apply.

3. Define your variables: Clearly define the variables you will be using in the problem and assign meaningful names to them. Ensure consistency in your notation throughout your solution.

4. Simplify and organize: Whenever possible, simplify expressions or equations by combining like terms or factoring. This can help you see patterns or make the problem more manageable. Also, organize your work neatly and clearly, ensuring that your steps are clearly labeled.

5. Consider multiple approaches: If you're stuck on a problem, try thinking about different approaches to solving it. Sometimes, coming at a problem from a different perspective can provide new insights or strategies.

6. Review key concepts: Take a few minutes before the exam to review essential calculus concepts, formulas, and theorems. Having a solid understanding of the foundational principles will help you recognize potential problem-solving approaches during the test.

7. Manage your time wisely: Time management is crucial during exams. Allocate your time based on the point value of each question and prioritize questions you feel more confident about. Don't get stuck on a single problem for too long; if you are struggling, move on and come back to it later if time permits.

8. Show all your work: Even if you make a mistake early on, showing your work can help you earn partial credit if your thought process is correct. Additionally, it allows your teacher to see where you may have made a misstep and potentially provide partial credit.

9. Check your answers: Whenever possible, go back and check your solutions, especially for more complex problems. Substitute your answers back into the original problem to see if they satisfy the given conditions. Also, double-check your arithmetic and algebraic manipulations to catch any potential mistakes.

Remember, practice is the key to improving your math skills. Work through a variety of problems to become comfortable applying different techniques. This will increase your problem-solving flexibility and understanding of calculus concepts, making it easier to handle different problem formats during exams. Good luck on your midterm!