6 answers
Dawson
Student
Davenport, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What should I do if I want to be a mechanical engineer but struggle in math??
What would you recommend doing if I wanted to go down the career path of a mechanical engineer but am not very good at Algebra or Geometry? I have been told those are needed to become a mechanical engineer.
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6 answers
David Emerson
Mechanical Engineer
20
Answers
Crawfordsville, Indiana
Updated
David’s Answer
Dawson,
The primary attributes of any engineer are curiosity and problem solving. Solid math skills are important, but most mechanical engineers I know seldom use anything beyond algebra and geometry, but we do use these a lot. So - treat your math skills as a problem you want to solve. What resources are available to you, such as tutors or homework hotlines or YouTube videos? Consider what might be hindering your progress - is your homework space noisy and distracting? Are you allowing sufficient time to do your homework? Do you do poorly on tests due to nerves? Does your learning style work well with how the material is being taught?
I challenge you not to accept "I'm not very good at math". Instead, ask yourself "What can I do to get better at math?"
Another thing to consider is a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. From my understanding it is less theory and more hands-on (fun!). And maybe not as much higher math.
The primary attributes of any engineer are curiosity and problem solving. Solid math skills are important, but most mechanical engineers I know seldom use anything beyond algebra and geometry, but we do use these a lot. So - treat your math skills as a problem you want to solve. What resources are available to you, such as tutors or homework hotlines or YouTube videos? Consider what might be hindering your progress - is your homework space noisy and distracting? Are you allowing sufficient time to do your homework? Do you do poorly on tests due to nerves? Does your learning style work well with how the material is being taught?
I challenge you not to accept "I'm not very good at math". Instead, ask yourself "What can I do to get better at math?"
Another thing to consider is a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. From my understanding it is less theory and more hands-on (fun!). And maybe not as much higher math.
Glenn A
Mechanical Engineering Manager @ Belkin
150
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Glenn’s Answer
This is an interesting question. From an education standpoint, math is a fundamental in engineering and you are expected to pass Calculus . This also means that you have passed Algebra, Geometry, and Trig. If you are laser focused on becoming a Mechanical Engineer or any other engineer, I would get a tutor overcome your mental road blocks.
On top of math, you have to be very good at Physics. Mechanical Engineering is applied Physics. You classes will be breaking down each area of physics. Statics & Dynamics, Heat and Mass transfer, Fluid Dynamics, etc.
This is not insurmountable, but it will take work to get good at these.
There are other paths in technology that have less educational requirements. I have a good friend that never went to college and is one of the most creative design engineers I know. He started working as a drafter during high school. Honestly, he struggles to find jobs because he does not have a degree. But he contributes at a very high level and has the title of Senior Mechanical Engineer at a surgical robotics company.
I do recommend education to make you more desirable to the hiring managers. BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology is a more hands on approach to engineering. Associate degree in CAD design also can be a path. Then there are technician training at vocational schools.
Get a tutor and overcome your gaps in math
Take Physics and get a tutor if needed
Consider other paths to technology degrees.
On top of math, you have to be very good at Physics. Mechanical Engineering is applied Physics. You classes will be breaking down each area of physics. Statics & Dynamics, Heat and Mass transfer, Fluid Dynamics, etc.
This is not insurmountable, but it will take work to get good at these.
There are other paths in technology that have less educational requirements. I have a good friend that never went to college and is one of the most creative design engineers I know. He started working as a drafter during high school. Honestly, he struggles to find jobs because he does not have a degree. But he contributes at a very high level and has the title of Senior Mechanical Engineer at a surgical robotics company.
I do recommend education to make you more desirable to the hiring managers. BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology is a more hands on approach to engineering. Associate degree in CAD design also can be a path. Then there are technician training at vocational schools.
Glenn recommends the following next steps:
Stephen Griffin
New Product Introduction Engineer
9
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Stephen’s Answer
Hey there! I've been a Mechanical Engineer for over a decade now. I know what it's like to grapple with Math, having battled with it all through high school and college. But let me tell you, even if Algebra and Geometry feel like mountains right now, they're not insurmountable. They certainly won't stop you from becoming a successful mechanical engineer, so don't let them deter you.
As many have pointed out, seeking additional help and concentrating on these subjects can pave your way to success and equip you for the more complex math classes you'll encounter in college. My own experience taught me that while I found math challenging, I excelled in courses where that math was applied to engineering topics.
Subjects like fluid dynamics and heat transfer might sound intimidating with their heavy math content, but they're so much more interesting that I found it easier to excel in them. Often, I realized that once I could link the math to a tangible process, like heat moving from one solid to another, the math principles became much more digestible.
Sure, you might need to put in some extra effort into math in college compared to your classmates. But remember, everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. You might just discover that another aspect or topic of engineering is your forte, and before you know it, you'll be the one lending a helping hand to your peers in that area. So keep your chin up and give it your best shot. Good luck!
As many have pointed out, seeking additional help and concentrating on these subjects can pave your way to success and equip you for the more complex math classes you'll encounter in college. My own experience taught me that while I found math challenging, I excelled in courses where that math was applied to engineering topics.
Subjects like fluid dynamics and heat transfer might sound intimidating with their heavy math content, but they're so much more interesting that I found it easier to excel in them. Often, I realized that once I could link the math to a tangible process, like heat moving from one solid to another, the math principles became much more digestible.
Sure, you might need to put in some extra effort into math in college compared to your classmates. But remember, everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. You might just discover that another aspect or topic of engineering is your forte, and before you know it, you'll be the one lending a helping hand to your peers in that area. So keep your chin up and give it your best shot. Good luck!
Sanya Rosser
Compliance Attorney
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sanya’s Answer
Consider looking into apprenticeships as a learning path. Seek out a professional in mechanical engineering and ask if they could mentor you in honing your skills.
Anita Hall Frost
Engineer
6
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Anita’s Answer
Becoming an engineer doesn't require you to be a genius at math, but it does involve taking a significant amount of it to earn your engineering degree. Don't be shy about seeking help - hire a tutor and utilize online math resources like Khan Academy to reinforce your lessons. Practice is key, so keep solving those problems!
Starting your math journey at a community college might be a smart move. Don't overload your schedule to ensure you have enough time for study. Give it a shot and see how you fare.
Remember, a poor grade isn't a catastrophe - it just means you need to try again. It's far from being the end of the world. I know many successful engineers who didn't ace calculus on their first try.
Best of luck on your journey to becoming an engineer!
Starting your math journey at a community college might be a smart move. Don't overload your schedule to ensure you have enough time for study. Give it a shot and see how you fare.
Remember, a poor grade isn't a catastrophe - it just means you need to try again. It's far from being the end of the world. I know many successful engineers who didn't ace calculus on their first try.
Best of luck on your journey to becoming an engineer!
Abdalah Haj Ali
Electromechanical engineer
2
Answers
El Jem, Tunisia
Updated
Abdalah’s Answer
If you want to become a mechanical engineer but struggle with math, don't worry—it's not an uncommon situation. While math is an essential component of engineering, there are steps you can take to improve your math skills and still pursue a career in mechanical engineering. Here's what you can do:
1. **Identify Specific Challenges:** Determine which areas of math are particularly challenging for you. Is it algebra, calculus, geometry, or something else? Pinpointing your weak points will help you focus your efforts on those areas.
2. **Get a Solid Foundation:** If you're struggling with the basics of math, consider starting with foundational math courses. There are many online resources, video tutorials, and books that can help you review and practice fundamental concepts.
3. **Seek Help:** Don't be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to your teachers, professors, classmates, or tutors for assistance. They can explain concepts in different ways that might make more sense to you.
4. **Practice Regularly:** Like any skill, math improves with practice. Dedicate regular time to practicing math problems. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become with mathematical concepts.
5. **Use Real-World Applications:** Connect math to real-world applications. When you see how math is used in practical engineering scenarios, it can make the subject more interesting and relevant.
6. **Visual Aids and Analogies:** Sometimes, visual aids or analogies can help you understand complex math concepts. Finding alternative ways to explain or visualize concepts might make them clearer to you.
7. **Take It Step by Step:** Break down complex problems into smaller steps. Focus on solving one part at a time, and gradually build up to the full solution.
8. **Online Resources:** Take advantage of the plethora of online resources available for learning math. Websites, apps, and online courses can provide interactive and engaging ways to learn.
9. **Utilize Study Groups:** Studying with peers can be beneficial. Explaining concepts to others and listening to their explanations can help reinforce your understanding.
10. **Consider Extra Help:** If you find yourself struggling significantly, consider enrolling in extra math classes or seeking out specialized math tutoring.
11. **Embrace a Growth Mindset:** Believe in your ability to improve. A growth mindset can make a big difference in how you approach challenges and learning.
12. **Connect Math to Engineering:** As a future mechanical engineer, understand that math is a tool you will use to solve real engineering problems. Keep the bigger picture in mind to motivate yourself.
13. **Work on Study Habits:** Sometimes, difficulties with math stem from study habits rather than inherent ability. Improving your study techniques and time management skills can make a big difference.
Remember, becoming a mechanical engineer involves more than just math. While math is important, there are other aspects of engineering that you can excel in. Focus on your strengths, work on your weaknesses, and seek the support you need to achieve your goals. With dedication and perseverance, you can overcome your challenges and succeed in your chosen field.
1. **Identify Specific Challenges:** Determine which areas of math are particularly challenging for you. Is it algebra, calculus, geometry, or something else? Pinpointing your weak points will help you focus your efforts on those areas.
2. **Get a Solid Foundation:** If you're struggling with the basics of math, consider starting with foundational math courses. There are many online resources, video tutorials, and books that can help you review and practice fundamental concepts.
3. **Seek Help:** Don't be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to your teachers, professors, classmates, or tutors for assistance. They can explain concepts in different ways that might make more sense to you.
4. **Practice Regularly:** Like any skill, math improves with practice. Dedicate regular time to practicing math problems. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become with mathematical concepts.
5. **Use Real-World Applications:** Connect math to real-world applications. When you see how math is used in practical engineering scenarios, it can make the subject more interesting and relevant.
6. **Visual Aids and Analogies:** Sometimes, visual aids or analogies can help you understand complex math concepts. Finding alternative ways to explain or visualize concepts might make them clearer to you.
7. **Take It Step by Step:** Break down complex problems into smaller steps. Focus on solving one part at a time, and gradually build up to the full solution.
8. **Online Resources:** Take advantage of the plethora of online resources available for learning math. Websites, apps, and online courses can provide interactive and engaging ways to learn.
9. **Utilize Study Groups:** Studying with peers can be beneficial. Explaining concepts to others and listening to their explanations can help reinforce your understanding.
10. **Consider Extra Help:** If you find yourself struggling significantly, consider enrolling in extra math classes or seeking out specialized math tutoring.
11. **Embrace a Growth Mindset:** Believe in your ability to improve. A growth mindset can make a big difference in how you approach challenges and learning.
12. **Connect Math to Engineering:** As a future mechanical engineer, understand that math is a tool you will use to solve real engineering problems. Keep the bigger picture in mind to motivate yourself.
13. **Work on Study Habits:** Sometimes, difficulties with math stem from study habits rather than inherent ability. Improving your study techniques and time management skills can make a big difference.
Remember, becoming a mechanical engineer involves more than just math. While math is important, there are other aspects of engineering that you can excel in. Focus on your strengths, work on your weaknesses, and seek the support you need to achieve your goals. With dedication and perseverance, you can overcome your challenges and succeed in your chosen field.