The Math Academy Way: Using the Power of Science to Supercharge Student Learning

This book is a working draft, updated March 2026.Math Academy is solving Bloom’s two-sigma problem by bringing together many evidence-based cognitive learning strategies into a single online learning platform. Our adaptive, fully-automated platform emulates the decisions of an expert tutor to provide the most effective way to learn math. This working draft describes how it's done.This draft has been put to print at the request of readers who would like a physical copy of the current version. It will be continually updated in the future. The price is as low as possible, and a digital copy is freely available online at https://justinmath.com/books/#the-math-academy-wayCONTENTS1. Preliminaries - The Two-Sigma Solution; The Science of Learning; Core Science: How the Brain Works; Core Technology: the Knowledge Graph; The Importance of Accountability and Incentives.2. Addressing Critical Misconceptions - The Persistence of Neuromyths; Myths & Realities about Individual Differences; Myths & Realities about Effective Practice; Myths & Realities about Mathematical Acceleration.3. Cognitive Learning Strategies - Active Learning; Deliberate Practice; Mastery Learning; Minimizing Cognitive Load; Developing Automaticity; Layering; Non-Interference; Spaced Repetition (Distributed Practice); Interleaving (Mixed Practice); The Testing Effect (Retrieval Practice); Targeted Remediation; Gamification; Leveraging Cognitive Learning Strategies Requires Technology.4. Coaching - Parental Support; In-Task Coaching; Developing Habit; Incentives and Motivation; Lessons from Legendary Coaches.5. Technical Deep Dives - Technical Deep Dive on Spaced Repetition; Technical Deep Dive on Diagnostic Exams; Technical Deep Dive on Learning Efficiency; Technical Deep Dive on Prioritizing Core Topics.6. Frequently Asked Questions - The Practice Experience; Student Behavior; XP and Practice Schedules; Diagnostics and Curriculum; Miscellaneous. Read more