Why do We Need to Learn Mathematics?

I’ve shared some thoughts on learning strategies and techniques to pick up new knowledge effectively. But a big question still lingers for many: what skill is worth investing in that will truly pay off today and in the future? For me, if I have to pick just one skill, it will be mathematics.

Mathematics is often seen as a subject that people either love or hate at school. No matter what’s your opinion on the subject, its importance extends far beyond the classroom. In fact, regardless of age, race, or gender, continuing to learn mathematics is essential for everyone. I’ll illustrate each point with practical examples here:

1. Everyday Mathematics and Numeracy Skills

It’s crucial that everybody in a society can at least apply basic skills of number and measurement in everyday situations in order to make informed decisions in daily life.. This type of practical mathematics is known as numeracy.

For example, understanding percentages is essential when calculating discounts during shopping, managing a budget, or interpreting interest rates on loans. Without these basic skills, a person might struggle with tasks as simple as cooking (measuring ingredients), comparing prices, or even splitting bills with friends.

Imagine you’re planning a road trip. You need to estimate the total cost, including fuel, food, and accommodation. You then need to understand basic arithmetic, the operations of numbers. To calculate the car’s fuel consumption and fuel efficiency, you require basic multiplication, division, addition and sometimes subtraction. An understanding of units is also useful — all skills are grounded in everyday mathematics.

2. Workplace Demand and Professional
Development

In today’s job market, many professions require a solid understanding of mathematics.

For example, an architect must use geometry and algebra to design buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound. A financial analyst relies on statistics and probability to assess risk and forecast economic trends.

Even in roles that may not seem maths-intensive, such as healthcare, nurses need to calculate the correct dosages of medication based on a patient’s weight and condition, requiring a precise understanding of ratios and proportions.

Carpenters regularly use geometry to calculate the area of surfaces, angles for cutting materials, and measurements to ensure that the pieces fit together perfectly. Without these mathematical skills, the quality and efficiency of their work would be compromised.

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3. Thinking Skills and Personal Development

Mathematics isn’t just about numbers; it’s about thinking critically and solving problems.

Learning and practising mathematics helps develop logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and the ability to solve problems methodically. These habits of mind are valuable in all areas of life, from making strategic decisions in business to planning personal goals.

For example, when faced with a challenging problem, whether it’s related to work or personal life, critical thinking skills acquired through maths could help us find a solution.

Consider a puzzle that requires you to determine the next number in a sequence: 2, 4, 8, 16, _. Recognising that each number is the previous one multiplied by 2, you can logically conclude that the next number should be 32.

Mathematics not only strengthens the brain and problem-solving skills, it also helps a person develop a mindset that is analytical, detail-oriented, and disciplined, which can be applied to complex, real-world problems.

4. Intellectual Achievement

Mathematics is considered one of the highest intellectual achievements of humanity.

It’s a discipline that has been developed over millennia and continues to evolve. For many, mathematics is not just a tool for practical use but a field of study that challenges the mind and deeply satisfies the human curiosity to understand the world.

Mathematicians like Euclid, who laid the foundation for geometry, and Andrew Wiles, who solved Fermat’s Last Theorem, pursued mathematics not for practical application but primarily for the sheer intellectual challenge. However, their work has profoundly impacted not just mathematics but also fields like science and engineering.

5. Life opportunities

Mathematics often links to educational and career opportunities.

Many academic and professional fields require a certain level of mathematical proficiency, whether it’s passing standardised tests for college admissions or meeting prerequisites for advanced study in fields like economics, engineering, or computer science.

For example, standardised tests like the SAT, ACT, or GRE often include a significant mathematics section that impacts students’ access to higher education. Likewise, many technical and scientific careers require strong mathematical skills. It’s no doubt a solid mathematics foundation is essential for success in these areas.

So…

Continuing to learn mathematics is not just about mastering formulas or passing exams; it’s about developing a set of skills and habits that are essential for personal and professional success.

Whether it’s making everyday decisions, solving complex problems at work, seeking intellectual satisfaction or life opportunities, mathematics provides the tools we need to better understand the world. All in all, mathematics is certainly a skill that benefits everyone for life.

To not know maths is a severe limitation to understanding the world – Richard Feyman

DeepGamma.