The first year of learning Math HL has come to an end. I had quite a rough start as I was shocked by the bad performance I had at the beginning of the course. I was not discouraged by the results of the first mini quiz because of my previous experience of learning math.  IB is generally a time-consuming course, other than coping with the six subjects and TOK, I had many assignments to take care of. This increase in workload made me spending insufficient time practicing math. In mathematics, there is a huge difference between “understanding the concepts” and applying the knowledge. After realising that, I decided to allocate more time to study math. I think this reflects in my performance in Math in the second half of the year. Now I am sure that Math will be my main focus for next year. Having a firm idea of studying Computer Science in university, ability to understand and use mathematics is essential. My reflection so far seems to make the learning of math difficult and being forced, but it is definitely interesting and fulfilling. Math is a universal language which has some beauty of its own. Knowledge learned in math is the closest to absolute certainty, the real truth, compared to all other subjects. As I am also learning physics, I can also appreciate the connection between pure math and real world (the physical phenomenon). The concept of calculus I learned so far is very useful in other disciplines. Being able to differentiate and integrate freely is really nice. When I finish solving a complex math problem, the sense of achievement is incredible although the process may be dull. It not only teaches me to rise up to challenges every time but also when to give up if the effort is useless.