Why Use Math Software?

Both kids and parents can receive advantages from using a top mathematics program.

Kids: Building a strong foundation in basic math can increase a child's chances for succeeding in and enjoying advanced math and science subjects. Participating in math activities outside of the classroom, through a math program, will improve test scores and increase math confidence.

Parents: Sometimes parents need a math boost if their skills are a little rusty and they would like to be able to help their child with their homework. Additionally, adults returning to college can benefit from brushing up on basic math skills before taking placement exams or taking a math-based science class.

A math program can be used to:

• Increase Speed - Increasing calculation speed saves time by decreasing the amount of homework time spent performing basic operations. Secondly, student tests are often timed, and some kids need to increase their speed in order to finish tests in the allotted time.
• Boost Math Confidence - Boosting kid's math confidence before they reach higher math classes can greatly improve their attitude towards math and their self-assurance in their own ability to learn and be successful.
• Improve Accuracy - A high level of accuracy is necessary to do well in higher math, one wrong step early in a long operation causes error and ultimately frustration. Mastering basic concepts can greatly improve performances in more complex math classes such as algebra, geometry and trigonometry.
• Prepare for Tests - Kids and adults can use math software to review concepts and basic math skills before a test. Often adults who have been out of school for years end up facing a placement exam upon returning to college, a good review program can curtail semesters of remedial course work.

In this site, you'll find articles related to Math, as well as comprehensive reviews and a side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision on which software is right for you.

At TopTenREVIEWS We Do the Research So You Don't Have To.™

What to Look for in Math Software

Finding good math software is difficult; some programs offer fun games whereas others offer volumes of relevant content. Rarely will you find both in the same software. Look for a program that can satisfy your specific needs. If the student textbook and class instruction is confusing or lacking, you may want to look at a comprehensive math program that explains concepts in detail. However, if the textbook is helpful and the classroom instruction is excellent, consider a math game or drill program to increase speed and accuracy while providing educational entertainment.

While comparing game programs with content programs is complicated, we looked at the teaching tools included in the program as well as the topics covered. We also evaluated how easy the program is to use and what kind of product support is offered.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate Math 4th-6th Grade Software:

Teaching Tools
Top programs offer an assortment of teaching tools, several skill levels and ways to monitor progress. Beyond text instruction, engaging programs also include interactive elements such as games, quizzes or building features to help keep kids activated.

Topics Covered
Fourth through sixth graders study numerous math subjects in three years, ranging from multiplication and decimals to introductory geometry and algebra, an accommodating program covers all subjects.

Ease of Use/Installation
Software should install quickly, be easy is to use and without program errors. We looked at these factors and included our findings in the review.

Help/Support
Extraordinary product support makes a good product an excellent product. Easy access to speedy technical support and inter-program help are essential. We looked to see whether the software includes a user manual, inter-program help, online help or FAQs as well as email or telephone support.

For the best content-based program, see Math Success. To increase speed and accuracy, see Quarter Mile Math, a drill program. Alternatively, for fun math games, see Math Arena or Adventure Workshop.