Expert: Sherman D. - 4/6/2005

Question
I can't say i really love mathematics, but it is ok.  The problem is that i have to use it, and so, i must learn it. I have encountered serious problems in elementary and advanced math because i cannot remember all the formulas, even though i did understand all of them. Everybody tells me that i must work more (do exercises) because there is no other way to memorise it all. That lead me to the conclusion that math isn't all about inteligence, you must also have a good memory. What do you think? Is there any possible way memorize formulas in a logical way ?

Answer
if you can give me specifics, like what kind of math formulas you are having trouble with, i might be able to help.

Here is what i can tell you
the quadratic formula x = (-b ± sqrt(b^2 - 4ac))/2a is what happens when you complete the "completing the square" formula.

there is no for sure way to memorize formulas, but i might be able to help you find ways to remember them, if i knew which ones you were having trouble with.

for me, i didn't have a lot of trouble remembering the formulas.