35 Real Situations Where Math is Used
Explore how math is a fundimental part of our world that we use in everyday life in these 25 situations, each with multiple examples in which it can be used
Introduction
- Budgeting:
When managing finances, algebra helps calculate expenses, savings, or how much money is left after purchases. For example, if you have a certain amount of money and spend a fixed amount each month, algebra can help determine how many months until the money runs out.
- Cooking: There are a number of ways you can use algebra and basic math when cooking. For example when converting units of measure you use algebra to re-arrange equations to figure out how much of 1 thing equals another. You can use the proportions part of algebra to plan meals by dividing based on amount of people or changing serving size.
- Saving Money & Shopping – Calculating discounts and final prices. For example if something costs $5 and is 20% off you can set up an equation. Or you can use it to calculate savings
- Consturction & Home Improvement – Figuring out how much paint you need using area formulas.
- Banking & Investing - Personal finance has a ton of uses of algebra. Before you buy or pay monthly for something such as insurance, internet, power, water or other utilities it is important to calculate the cost and compare long term effects of rates to see which is a better option financially
- Scheduling & Time Managment - When managing your time you have to be aware of basic math operations so you can divide out your schedule. Literal division is one thing that is helpful but you'll find addition and subtraction come ip everywhere.
- Traveling & Trip Planning - There are a number of situations regarding traveling where you need math. One example is converting either currency or units if the country uses a different measurment system. These use algebra and proportions which are important parts of math. Planning financial aspects such as lodging and food require math as well. Its important to have an understanding of math so you keep track of money and spend it wisley to avoid debt or financial loss
- Paying Bills & Taxes - Taxes are something nobody likes but we all have to do, because it chips in money to help support our society such as public roads, libraries, parks and other services. When calculating taxes there are a number of formulas and numbers you'll need to calculate on the form such as deductable income. When paying bills you also need to calculate things such as rates and tips as well as keep track in advance of how much something will cost you before buying
- Calculating Tips - When calculating tips you need to use basic mathematics such as calculating percentages and proportions. Its often advised to tip 20%
- Fitness & Dieting - If you are on a diet or trying to get in better shape you can calculate a number of things such as rate of weight loss
- Gardening / Landscaping Projects - Gardening can be a very fun and practical activity for many
- Road Trips & Buying Cars
- Driving Skills
- Computer Programming
- Web Design
- Video Game Design
- Online Shopping
- Retail & Sales Jobs
- Arts & Crafts
- Calculating Rates & MPG
- Plumbing Projects
- Electrical Work
- Medicine Dosage & Personal Health
- Sports & Keeping Score - There are so many examples to mention for this so I will list a few: Keeping score
Tracking player stats
Calculating batting averages
Measuring distances in races
Timing events
Analyzing performance metrics
Game strategy using probability
Designing balanced game mechanics
Fantasy sports analytics
Handicap calculations