I often feel that I have some sort of brain damage, as math has always given me so much difficulty in comprehending. This problem has been with me since the third grade, and troubles me to this day. Simple things like adding in my head, remembering the times table, and the list goes on. The tragedy for me is that this problem has closed many doors for me in the past, and when working on problems today, I still struggle.
My first college Algebra class, the prof made each student, go up on the whiteboard and work a problem, my name was called, I broke into a panic, and grabbed my things, walked out, and dropped the class. I ended retaking the class the following semester with a different prof who did not force students up on the white board (I also had to get a tutor which helped me get through the course). I use to get sick and throw up the morning of a math test. Don't even ask me about my calculus classes
I really do see the value in math and for electronics it is a invaluable tool, but alas, I do not think I will ever be able to overcome this obstacle, and will continue to rely on math aids like graphing calculators, and endless hours trying to grasp simple math concepts...
So what is wrong with me
Thanks, but I am no longer in school, this was awhile back. I only mention it as a history of my issues with math. I have no problem with public speaking, in fact I do quite well in that area. Recently I have been working on some design projects and hit a brick wall when math comes into play. Not basic math mind you, more like calculus and trig concepts.
Mike,I often feel that I have some sort of brain damage
I often feel that I have some sort of brain damage, as math has always given me so much difficulty in comprehending. This problem has been with me since the third grade, and troubles me to this day. Simple things like adding in my head, remembering the times table, and the list goes on. The tragedy for me is that this problem has closed many doors for me in the past, and when working on problems today, I still struggle.
My first college Algebra class, the prof made each student, go up on the whiteboard and work a problem, my name was called, I broke into a panic, and grabbed my things, walked out, and dropped the class. I ended retaking the class the following semester with a different prof who did not force students up on the white board (I also had to get a tutor which helped me get through the course). I use to get sick and throw up the morning of a math test. Don't even ask me about my calculus classes
I really do see the value in math and for electronics it is a invaluable tool, but alas, I do not think I will ever be able to overcome this obstacle, and will continue to rely on math aids like graphing calculators, and endless hours trying to grasp simple math concepts...
So what is wrong with me
In the 60's I was diagnosed by a doctor as having hyperactivity (Now called ADHD), they gave me medications (Ritalin) for it as I was acting out in school (3rd grade). Not sure how long I was on that stuff, but I don't think it was too long. In college I actually had one math teacher who for some reason liked me and I thought I should get a math degree (go figure), due to the way I approached my problems, but he thought I should get tested for dyscalculia, but I never followed up on that.Sorry to hear about that. Could you possibly have ADD? If you think so, seek treatment which could help.
Aren't you a little old to be lamenting about your mathematical shortcomings? I can't dunk a basketball, never could. I wanted so badly to do it just once but my pallette of attributes didn't offer up anything helpful for dunking a basketball. So I found something I could do, and I did it well, and it fulfills me. I don't even think about dunking basketballs anymore. Maybe if my profession was a basketball referee and I had to watch athletes do something that I envy on a daily basis, I would still be holding onto a bit of butthurt about it.
Maybe this math thing just keeps getting thrown in your face because of the line of work you're in. Maybe you should consider a transition to another related line of work that doesn't require all the math. You don't have any problem with public speaking, maybe you could transition into sales. A salesman who comes from a technical background and actually knows what he's talking about can make way more than an engineer. Or management, that's good money too, engineering management you'd still be on the same projects but you'd be cracking the whip making other people do the math.
Hi Mike,Thanks, but I am no longer in school, this was awhile back. I only mention it as a history of my issues with math. I have no problem with public speaking, in fact I do quite well in that area. Recently I have been working on some design projects and hit a brick wall when math comes into play. Not basic math mind you, more like calculus and trig concepts.
Mike,
I love math, it is English for me.
This is a feedback problem. I am not good at English. In meetings, when I write on the white board and some one laughs, it causes me to make more errors, which causes more laughs.
On the white board there is on spell checker.
I have written many technical papers.
"I know I will fail so I fail"
Yes I have to agree after re-reading what I wrote. I worded that very badly from start to finish. I sincerely apologize.I am sort of taking your tone as condescension or patronizing. Not sure how to respond to your comment, but thanks.
I once got a job because of two factors.I was very surprised to read your post
As I said I love maths... Mainly geometry and trigonometry...
Percentages.... I would dearly love to know how to get back.... ie £100 + 10% = £110 but something like this.
25% off £100 is £75 BUT! £75 -> £100 is + 33%
Does my nut in....
I need 15% discount on goods... I have to use trial and error to find out that I need to add 17.6% so I know my un discounted price..
I need an equation!!
At work, if you make enemies, they will pick on your weaknesses. If you make friends they will cover your back. Those who pick on everyone are little people and there is a special place in hell for them. Stay away.
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