For those who don't enjoy Math: Here are 4 proofs that it is everywhere

Math can be very hard sometimes. It is filled with complex equations and rules, and it is one of those things that you either get or you don't. With how complicated math can be, people might find that they either really enjoy math or they really dislike it. One of the biggest reasons that teachers give for making people study math is that 'math is everywhere.'

Sadly, they are very right about that! Here are four areas where a skill in mathematics can be extremely helpful.

Games, Especially Poker

From the biggest video game to a simple game of cards, games are intertwined with numbers all the way. One of the best examples where this is evident is poker because a good poker face is only going to get you so far in the game. 

Different formats of poker games might seem complicated, but it is a game all about probability and logic. You need certain cards depending on the scenarios that you find yourself in, and the probability of getting those cards from the 52-card deck needs to be figured out. Reading the other players can help you get information, but you need to turn that information into math to succeed.

There are plenty of formulas and algorithms to help with the world of logical poker thinking. The first is ratios. In a standard deck of cards, there are 52 cards. If you need a certain card to win, comparing that number to the total can give you the probability of what you will draw.

Additionally, there is a formula called poker EV. Poker Expected Value is a symbol of how profitable a play will be in the long run. If a play is +EV it is expected to gain value in the long run, while a -EV play will lose you money.

Understanding the numbers behind poker helps you make use of your luck. If you know that one of your opponents is bluffing about the cards they have, look at your hand. If you have the correct ratios, you can switch that bluff and make it your advantage. There's a formula for almost every scenario in poker, and knowing when to fall back on them can be helpful.

Your Job and Finances

Even if you hate math and never want to use it again after your education is done, you still need to use it for your finances. Calculating your bills, your taxes, tips at restaurants, and more are all done by math. Even your job and your paycheck rely on math for you to figure out what you are making each month.

Anything involving money is going to require a basic amount of math. Since money makes the world go around, you are going to be running into it quite often! Sure we've got calculators and other tools to help us out, but there is nothing like being able to solve a money problem all by yourself!

Decision Making

Math doesn't just have us memorize an answer and walk away. We need to work out how to solve the problem. That means using formulas, defining variables, and considering all the options presented to us. But putting in that work makes getting to the answer very rewarding!

Even if your real life has more variables and scenarios to consider, math can help. You are still trying to arrive at one answer with the data available. Even if your life has a few more options and variables to fill in. That doesn't change the fact that you have a problem and an answer. That's math.

You can use your math skills to solve any number of real-life problems, so don't be afraid to try it!

Coding

Coding can help you get into the back end of the computer that most users don't see. Many coders and programmers see nothing but ones and zeros all day when they work. Mathematics is a crucial part of computer sciences, which includes coding as well. It forms a backbone for everything else that comes after it.

Additionally, you will be using equations and formulas to tell the computer what to do. This means working with variables, functions, and various amounts so you can run your program. The correct math will have the program running successfully, while incorrect math will cause problems you need to fix up.

Math Can Help You... Even At The Basic Level

You don't need a master's degree in math if you don't want one. Even the basic level of math is often going to be enough to get you through life. But you need at least a basic level. It might be dull, but the more you can focus on understanding the math that is all around you, the easier solving those problems will be!