First step: don’t choose the operation immediately
Trying to add or multiply as soon as you read a problem can make you miss the relationship it describes. First, explain the question in your own words. Answer “What does this question ask me to find?” in one sentence.
Separate what is given from what is asked
Divide a sheet of paper in two: list the known information on one side and what you need to find on the other. Include units. A table, diagram or simple sketch can make relationships easier to see, especially in questions with several steps.
Try a smaller example
If a general rule is difficult to see, explore the same relationship with smaller numbers. Explain why each step works. For example, draw two equal groups first, then examine how the total relates to the number of groups.
Take the result back to the question
A correct calculation alone is not enough. What does the result mean? Is the unit correct? Is its approximate size reasonable? Put the result back into the original conditions and check it.
Keep a notebook for mistakes
Don’t just write the correct answer next to a mistake. Note whether the error came from reading, topic knowledge or calculation. Revisit that point with a short question of the same type in your next study session.