Rethinking Math: Why Speed and Accuracy Aren’t Everything

Why Speed and Correct Answers Shouldn’t Define Math Success

Many of us grew up learning math with an emphasis on two things: getting the right answer and doing it quickly. This approach was ingrained in classrooms, homework assignments, and even standardized testing. As educators and moms, we’ve worked hard to shift away from this focus, both for our students and for our own kids. Here’s why we believe it’s time to rethink these priorities.

The Hidden Dangers of Prioritizing Speed in Math

When we prioritize speed and correctness above all else, we send kids a damaging message: If you’re not fast or if you make mistakes, you’re not good at math. This pressure can lead to frustration and feelings of inadequacy, causing many children to give up or stop trying when they face a challenge. Instead of viewing mistakes as opportunities to learn, they might see them as proof that they’re not capable. Over time, this mindset erodes their confidence and creates a lasting negative association with math.

It’s heartbreaking to see kids begin to associate math with stress or failure instead of curiosity and exploration. And this isn’t just about how kids feel about math. A 2014 study found that children who felt anxious about math performed worse, especially in high-pressure situations (Maloney, et al.). This anxiety often stems from the relentless emphasis on quick, correct answers rather than a deeper understanding of concepts.

Why the Focus on Speed Undermines Math Learning

Focusing on speed and correctness also robs kids of the chance to experience the beauty and creativity of math. Math is so much more than memorizing formulas or racing to answers—it’s about patterns, problem-solving, and discovering connections. It’s about asking questions and exploring possibilities. But when math is framed as a timed competition, kids miss out on these enriching aspects.

Even some of the world’s most brilliant mathematicians have grappled with the consequences of this pressure. Laurent Schwartz, who won the Fields Medal (one of the most prestigious global mathematics awards), admitted that he never considered himself “fast” at math. Instead, he valued being slow and deliberate, which allowed him to deeply understand ideas and ultimately achieve extraordinary success. As Schwartz himself said, "I was always rather slow. I needed time to think, to understand. I deeply believed I was stupid. Until I realized that what is important is to deeply understand things and their relations to each other. This is where true success in mathematics lies." Schwartz’s story is a powerful reminder that deep thinking matters far more than speed (Schwartz, 2001).

Strategies to Counteract the Focus on Speed and Correctness

So how can we counteract the harmful focus on speed and correctness? Here are a few strategies:

Tip One: Celebrate Effort and Growth in Math Skills

Instead of praising kids for getting the right answer quickly, acknowledge their perseverance and problem-solving process. Highlight the value of trying different approaches and learning from mistakes. Even if they do answer correctly, shift the focus from the speed and the answer and say instead, “I’d love to hear about the thinking that you did to get that answer.”

Tip Two: Encourage Creative Math Exploration

Provide opportunities for kids to explore math concepts in creative ways. Use puzzles, games, and real-world problems to spark curiosity and show that math can be fun and engaging. Try things like the Would you Rather Game at meals to keep math fun and feeling less like just computation.

Tip Three: Emphasize Thoughtful Problem-Solving Over Speed

Allow kids the time they need to think through problems. Reassure them that it’s okay to take their time and that understanding the “why” behind the answer is more important than how quickly they solve it. Move away from speed-based programs and practice.

Tip Four: Redefine Success in Math Education

Shift the focus from getting everything right to building understanding and resilience. Emphasize that struggling with a problem is a natural and important part of learning. Read books like Your Fantastic Elastic Brain together to help your child learn about how their brain learns and grows. 

For more insights and tips on counteracting the focus on speed and correctness and fostering a positive math mindset, check out our dedicated blog post on mindset. Also be sure to check out our curated list of books for kids and their grown-ups that help support developing a positive relationship with math. 

The Benefits of Slowing Down and Embracing Mistakes

By shifting the focus away from speed and correct answers, we help kids develop resilience, confidence, and a true love for math. They begin to see mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than failures. They discover that math isn’t about being the fastest or the smartest—it’s about curiosity, growth, and joy.

Imagine a classroom or home where kids feel free to explore, ask questions, and make mistakes without time pressure or fear of judgment. This environment fosters a love of learning and helps kids develop the skills they need to tackle challenges—not just in math, but in life.

References

Maloney, E. A., Ramirez, G., Gunderson, E. A., Levine, S. C., & Beilock, S. L. (2014). Interactions between anxiety and motivation in children's math achievement: A test of the expected value theory. Psychological Science, 25(7), 1513-1522. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797614534265

Schwartz, L. (2001). A Mathematician Grappling with His Century. Springer.