# Thread: [Int. Algebra] How can I improve my equation calculation speed?

1. ## [Int. Algebra] How can I improve my equation calculation speed?

I feel that I'm taking too long to do simple Algebra I/II equations.

Example: $\displaystyle 3(2x-2)-4(x+6)=3x+8+x$

This equation took me a little under 3 minutes and this one was easy. I need to figure this because I run out time during tests. This invariable makes me panic and essentially my brain shuts down--I'm done. I practice equations and anything that I need help with for about two to three hours a day. Someone told me that I'm spending too much time studying, I don't see how it's possible to study too much.

Moving on... any tips or opinions on how I can speed up my solving process would be appreciated.

Thanks

2. ## Re: [Int. Algebra] How can I improve my equation calculation speed?

Originally Posted by alexcordero
Example: $\displaystyle 3(2x-2)-4(x+6)$
Grouping. Group coefficients of x, then group constants. The reason for this is that once you know you've solved the coefficient of x, you no longer need to worry about adding x terms for solving the rest.
$\displaystyle 3(2x-2)-4(x+6) = (6 - 4)x + (-6 - 24) = 2x - 30$

3. ## Re: [Int. Algebra] How can I improve my equation calculation speed?

Grouping. Group coefficients of x, then group constants. The reason for this is that once you know you've solved the coefficient of x, you no longer need to worry about adding x terms for solving the rest.
$\displaystyle 3(2x-2)-4(x+6) = (6 - 4)x + (-6 - 24) = 2x - 30$
Oh wow! I did do this particular problem in my head. It still took me a bit but I didn't write anything down. Ok.. This is the sort of information I was hoping for. Thank you VERY much.

4. ## Re: [Int. Algebra] How can I improve my equation calculation speed?

Originally Posted by alexcordero
It still took me a bit but I didn't write anything down. Ok.. This is the sort of information I was hoping for. Thank you VERY much.
$\displaystyle 3(2x-2)-4(x+6)=3x+8+x$

It seems to me that instead of copying the problem it would smart to just start.

$\displaystyle \begin{array}{l} 6x - 6 - 4x - 24 = 4x + 8\\ 2x - 30 = 4x + 8\\ - 2x = 38 \end{array}$

5. ## Re: [Int. Algebra] How can I improve my equation calculation speed?

This is also very helpful in addition to grouping. Particularly because one of the processes that took longer than expected during an exam was rewriting the equation and checking to see that I did that right. Because I was already nervous, there was one equation that I wrote down incorrectly and tried to solve--that was a good 10 minute waste of time.

Our professor has an unusual way of giving tests. He gives you the questions and you're not allowed to write on that. Then he gives you a separate sheet of paper and you're to copy the problem and solve it. You turn in the questions with your name and the answer sheet. I've never seen math tests administered like this but it adds a strange complications.

Anyway, it is what it is.. thanks for your help.