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Math Department: Skill makes speed

March 21, 2018

Math Department: Skill makes speed

All the students who have participated in math competitions know that one’s speed in solving math problems is essential. If we find the best method, a complex question that usually takes a long time to finish can be solved within seconds. At noon on March 16th, Professor Jeff Anderson, the professor of the Mathematics Department at University of Waterloo, led the 9-12 graders who love mathematics to enjoy the pleasure of solving math problems in the most efficient way.

Professor Anderson distributed six questions to all the students. He allowed the students to try to finish those questions by themselves first, and then analyzed them one by one. The professor began by introducing the complex ways to solve the problems. Then, he led the students to look for shortcuts, improved the method of solving the problems gradually, and led the students to experience, fast, very fast, and even faster problem-solving processes. For instance, for a geometric problem, a general method is to apply the sine and cosine rules, formulas we learnt during 10th grade, but this method requires a calculator. In fact, using the properties of isosceles triangles can solve the problem more efficiently without using a calculator. However, the professor wasn’t satisfied enough with the method. He suggested that if we add auxiliary lines to draw an equilateral triangle, the answer will become obvious and the question can be solved within seconds.

Not satisfied with merely solving the problems, Professor Anderson constantly seeks more and more effective ways to solve math problems. His passion for Mathematics that was shown in the workshop inspired the students’ interest in solving problems and studying Math.

(Written by Yuki from 12(5) Pictures by the High School Math Teachers)