3 Math Skills March Madness Can Teach Us

If you enjoy sports (and even if you do not), you may be familiar with March Madness. This Division I college basketball tournament is a great source of entertainment, but it can also be educational. March Madness can teach us about communication, teamwork, and yes - even math. Here are three math skills that you can perfect during the 2015 tournament:

Forming statistical predictions

Many people love to fill out March Madness brackets. Their methods of selection vary, from choosing the most adorable mascots, to picking teams at random, to upholding college allegiances. But there is also a more accurate way to predict a winner. By using math to determine a likely outcome, free essay writer may increase your chances of victory.

Begin by calculating each team's winning percentage, which can be found by examining their win-loss records. You can also look at the win-loss record of a particular coach. If you would like a challenge, try calculating a team's average offensive output and average points allowed. You can even determine the difference in winning percentage between two competing squads.

By evaluating these numbers, you can create a bracket that is more likely to be accurate. While it will not guarantee a win, it will exercise your mind.

Working within set parameters

We are often asked to solve problems that exist within a very particular set of parameters. While this can be frustrating, it is the reality of volunteer opportunities. Basketball itself was partially invented in order to allow students to release their energy indoors during the winter. The game fulfilled a specific need and met a number of specific conditions.

Now think about math problems that follow the same pattern. If we approach math in a way that is similar to how we approach basketball, it can suddenly seem much easier. Reframe the way you view your math homework, and try to identify a strategy for reaching the answers given your parameters. If you are feeling particularly ambitious, you can write your top high paying jobs and practice your math skills by exchanging them with a friend.

Creating and balancing budgets

The math skills you acquire through March Madness can extend to "real life" too. For example, if you would like to practice budgeting, imagine that you are going to travel to the championship March Madness game. Plan your route, and determine the cost of gas, lodging, tickets, food, etc. If you have a deep love of basketball, why not make your plan official? Use it to save the necessary funds, and then, if you are able, make the journey to the 2016 March Madness tournament.

While you may feel as though imaginary budgets are a bit silly, they provide great practical experience. You can hone your estimation skills, strengthen your organization, and increase your ability to accurately track your expenses - all while thinking about basketball!

One of the most important things that you can do as a student is to find ways to make learning apply to theoretical framework. With March Madness, you can get excited about basketball while you also get excited about math!