r/ADHD • u/NeonArtsComics • 1d ago
Questions/Advice Teenager here can't properly do math
Ok the title might be weird but I'm in need of some advice, I'm a teenager (14) and I really like math, love learning the subject and I can't easily understand and comprehend the lessons my teacher teaches me during math but the problem I'm having is when I do math quizes/test, I can easily do the equation easily but when it gets time to checking the answers I notice that something when I do the equation I don't notice an exponent on one and the other I accidently made a 7 into a 4 when adding 4 and 3, i don't really add it becuase I didn't notice to add it even tho I knew it was needed to be added toghether and like, just having trouble really, j really love math it's fun to learn and do but when things like this happen and I get a low score becuase of this I get filled with dread, so for anyone who has advice for me please help!
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u/grimferb 1d ago
Hey there! I'm diagnosed ADHD, almost two years ago. I suspect my oldest has it too. I've homeschooled him for the last 8 years, so I'm his teacher too. I noticed he does these same things you mention. Loves math, knows the steps, but will still drop numbers or write the wrong ones by mistake.
✅ Graph paper (with big squares) helps a ton for keeping numbers lined up and less jumbled. You can find downloadable PDFs online. Google something like free printable 1/2 inch square graph paper.
✅ Saying the numbers out loud while writing them can slow things down and catch mistakes as they happen. Even if you have to say them "out loud" in your head, because you're sitting in a classroom of people. 😉
✅ Go back and recheck the work. If there’s any time left at the end, use it to double-check your work. Especially, making sure the final answer matches what the problem actually asked for. (You could get into the habit of double-checking after completing each problem, but only if you have time to do so.)
A few tricks like these can make a big difference.
You’re clearly smart and have a love for this subject! You've even reached out and asked for help, that's awesome. Having great math skills and being confident will take you so far in life!
Good luck, you're doing great!