Math anxiety is often an emotional reaction to mathematics based on a past unpleasant experience which harms future learning. By replacing a bad experience with a good learning experience, these past feelings can be overcome, whereby success and future achievement in mathematics is not only possible, it is probable.

*What is Math Anxiety?
Math anxiety or fear of math is actually quite common. Math anxiety is quite similar to stage fright. Why does someone suffer stage fright? Fear of something going wrong in front of a crowd? Fear of forgetting the lines? Fear of being judged poorly? Fear of going completely blank? Math anxiety conjures up fear of some type. The fear that one won't be able to do the math or the fear that it's too hard or the fear of failure which often stems from having a lack of confidence. For the most part, math anxiety is the fear about doing the math right, our minds draw a blank and we think we'll fail and of course the more frustrated and anxious our minds become, the greater the chance for drawing blanks. Added pressure of having time limits on math tests and exams also cause the levels of anxiety grow for many students.             *By Deb Russell, About.com 

Helpful Math Anxiety Links

1. Do you have Math Anxiety?           Take the self test.

1. Math study skill inventory.            What skills do you have?
   
2. Tips for success in math class.                                           25 great tips for success.
3. Suggestions for studying mathematics.                              17 study suggestions.

The "rule of 3" says that  for each hour of class you should plan to study at least 3 solid hours per week by yourself.

  
*Myths and Misconceptions -None of the following are true!

• You're born with a math gene, either you get it or you don't.

• Math is for males, females never get math!

• It's hopeless, and much too hard for average people.

• If the logical side of your brain isn't your strength, you'll never do well in math.

• Math is a cultural thing, my culture never got it!

• There's only one right way to do math.

*By Deb Russell, About.com