When you are growing up, it can be difficult to know exactly what you want to do when you enter the world of work. Whilst every job is different, there are certain skills from studying mathematics that you can take into any job.
Transferable skills
When you study a language, the boundaries of what you have learnt can seem obvious- you can only speak the language to others who also speak it. In the same vain, if you cannot speak a language it can be very difficult to communicate with others who do. The language of maths, however, is universal. Everywhere in the world will be using the same numbers and formulas as you do, and this makes maths universal.
Analytical argument formation
The way we solve mathematical problems usually follows the same formula: we see the problem, pick out what we think is important, figure out what we do not know. After this, we often think of all the ways we can get to the answer and pick the best way to get to where we need to be. In the world of work, forming an argument for what you think is best will happen a lot, and maths sets us up for this.
Problem-solving skills
Having maths skills mean you have the reasoning power to work out what is happening and find better fitting solutions for yourself and others and this is a skill that is highly sought after.
Data manipulation
Every industry uses data. For example, if you work in sales you will have data on how much has sold and to whom. If you work in climate change, you will have data on how different aspects of the environment have changed over time. Maths will teach you how to play around with and interpret data. As the world becomes more digital and data-focused, this is a very important skill to have!
Communication skills
Communication skills are one of the most important skills in any role! Maths helps you communicate complicated ideas clearly and logically. For example, if you work in pharmaceuticals, you could recommend a vaccine after trials and present why your product is a good choice.
To conclude, maths is everywhere- and the skills you learn in maths can set you up well for your working life.
