Why do students struggle with math?

Children don't hate math. What they hate is being confused, intimidated, and embarrassed by math. With understanding comes passion, and with passion comes growth - a treasure is unlocked.

Mathematics is often regarded as one of the most challenging subjects for students across all educational levels. While some students excel in math, others face persistent struggles that can impact their overall academic performance and confidence. Understanding the reasons behind these difficulties is crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers to create supportive learning environments. From an educational perspective, here are several key reasons students struggle with math:

1. Lack of Foundational Skills Mathematics is a cumulative subject — new concepts build upon previously learned material. If a student falls behind or misses critical foundational topics such as basic arithmetic, number sense, or fractions, they may find it difficult to grasp more advanced concepts like algebra or geometry. This learning gap can widen over time, leading to increased frustration and disengagement.

2. Math Anxiety Many students develop a fear of math, known as math anxiety. This emotional response can create a mental block, preventing students from fully engaging with the subject. Anxiety can stem from past negative experiences, pressure to perform well, or a belief that they are inherently "bad at math." This mindset can undermine confidence and motivation, creating a self-fulfilling cycle of poor performance.

3. Abstract Nature of Math Unlike subjects that are more concrete and rooted in daily experiences, math often involves abstract concepts that can be difficult for students to visualize and relate to real-life situations. For example, the notion of imaginary numbers or multi-step algebraic equations may seem disconnected from a student’s everyday world, making it harder to grasp.

4. Teaching Methods and Curriculum Design Traditional, lecture-based teaching methods may not align with how all students learn best. Some learners benefit from hands-on activities, visual aids, or interactive technology that contextualizes math in practical scenarios. Additionally, a rigid, fast-paced curriculum may leave little room for personalized support, preventing students from fully understanding topics before moving on to the next.

5. Lack of Engagement and Relevance Students are more likely to engage with math when they see its relevance to their lives and future goals. When math is presented as a series of abstract exercises without context, students may lose interest. Incorporating real-world applications — such as budgeting, coding, or scientific investigations — can help students appreciate math’s value and motivate them to persist through challenges.

6. Cognitive Differences and Learning Disabilities Students have diverse cognitive strengths and challenges. Some may have specific learning disabilities like dyscalculia, which affects number sense and mathematical reasoning. Others may face difficulties with working memory, processing speed, or attention — all of which are critical for solving math problems. Recognizing these differences and providing tailored support can help students overcome these barriers.

7. External Factors Home environment, socioeconomic status, and access to resources can also influence a student’s ability to succeed in math. A lack of access to tutoring, technology, or even a quiet space to study can hinder learning. Additionally, cultural attitudes toward math and education can shape a student’s perception of their abilities and the subject’s importance.

Moving forward: Supporting math learners

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Educators can employ diverse teaching strategies that cater to different learning styles, while schools can prioritize early intervention and provide additional support for struggling students. Building a positive, growth-oriented mindset around math and making the subject engaging and relevant can also foster resilience and enthusiasm.

By recognizing the varied reasons students struggle with math, stakeholders in education can work collaboratively to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment — one where every student has the opportunity to succeed in mathematics.