How to tackle math word problems on pharmacy tech exams
The big secret: Don’t think about the problem until you write down all the factors.
Sounds too easy, right? But that’s where everyone gets stuck. Start by carefully reading the entire question from start to finish and decode the important factors. Then go back and read it again slowly, noting only the necessary facts. Factors aren’t just numbers, but also things like days, percent signs, pm, or whatever will help you keep things straight. Also, carefully write the numbers below or above the numbers that will be added or subtracted and establish the fractions.
Write an equal sign where appropriate
This is critical; the equals sign is like a trigger for our brains that we have been taught since third grade. Now that the problem is written in terms with an equals sign in place, the light will usually go on and you’ll start solving the problem. From here, the only complexes you might run into are things like not knowing the conversions or needing to convert to all similar factors. Even if you misspell the factors the first time, you’ll probably see how to rearrange them and get started.
Sloppy writing is not allowed in math:
Your success in mathematics depends on you writing all the factors in an orderly and organized way. When you come across a math problem, the first thought that should come into your head is to grab a piece of paper to write it down. As you write it down, write clearly and leave a space between the lines.
When I create practice math problems for the free practice tests, I have to think of three dummy answers. How do I do it? It may sound sadistic, but I try to consider what responses would arise if someone was careless. I think about things like if a factor was omitted, or if someone did the equation quickly, or his head. Test writers who write for official tests do the same. After all, exams are used to weed out unqualified applicants. If you want to pass the exam, practice writing things in a complete, neat, and organized way.
When you come to a question that is a math problem.
First, relax and know that all the facts are there for you to work out. Then take a deep breath and follow these steps: Do not try to rush or use a shortcut
read it at least twice
Write down the only necessary factors.
Put an equal sign where it belongs
do the math
Need more Pharmacy Tech math practice?
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