6 tips for studying for the UIL Number Sense Test

Intro

On T2L Academy, I have made various videos on actual number sense tricks and concepts. However, I wanted to use this blog post as a way to go over some important preparation strategies to help you succeed in your learning. So, here are my six tips for getting ready for the UIL Number Sense Test:

Number 1: Don’t weigh speed over accuracy

In the number sense competition, you should always be sure to not weigh speed over accuracy and make a lot of mistakes – remember, wrong answers cost you points in UIL Number Sense.  Focus on accuracy to begin with, but prepare well in advance so that you have a lot of time to build up your speed along with that accuracy.  You can get up to 400 points in this competition if you are able to do all 80 questions accurately (and as little as -320 if you get all of the questions wrong)!

Number 2: Practice, practice, practice

This is one that is applicable to a lot of different skills, not just number sense.  The ability to make quick calculations and process the questions quickly requires learning of the concepts and practice doing tests. 

Number 3: Understand the “why”, and use tricks for quicker calculations

A lot of times for number sense, you will find yourself simply memorizing tricks to make the fast calculations in your head.  While this may be useful for speedy answers, but be sure to understand the “why” and actually understand the rules behind why those tricks work. 

Number 4: Find your learning style!

This tip is another one that can be used for learning a lot of different concepts.  For me, I learn by teaching.  For you, it may be applying the concept to everyday life, or even something completely different.  Personalizing your study plan can help you succeed in your goals.

Number 5: Make a study plan!

Speaking of study plans, let’s make one!  Write down your different, larger milestones, and break it into smaller chunks and paths to get to that goal.  Be sure to consider time, and pace your learning in a way that you are able to fully grasp the concepts.

Number 6: Always be learning

This one’s self-explanatory. Keep learning, stay curious.

Join me on my learning journey!  Visit the T2L Academy YouTube Channel at: https://tinyurl.com/teaching2learn