Learning Portfolio #2B: Exam 2 Reflection

Strength

One topic I felt strong in during Exam 2 was Lagrange multipliers and optimization problems involving maxima and minima. These types of questions clicked with me because I was able to visualize the constraint functions and set up the partial derivatives correctly. My confidence level for this topic matched the score I received — I understood how to apply the method and felt more relaxed while solving those problems compared to others. This section reminded me that when I prepare early and repeatedly practice the structure of the problem, the process feels smoother and more automatic. It also gave me a small boost of confidence that I can master new material when I give myself enough time to process it step by step.

Area of Growth

I struggled with several questions that reflected poor algebra habits and overthinking. The biggest issues I faced were:

• R-bound question – I misread what the problem was asking and got lost in setting up the correct bounds.

• dx/dy or dy/dx question – I confused the order of integration and differentiation, which led to an incorrect setup.

• Integral of tan question – I blanked on the correct substitution and didn’t recognize the identity that simplifies it.

• Derivative question – I second-guessed my answer and changed it, even though my first instinct was right.

Looking back, these errors were less about not knowing the material and more about rushing, low confidence, and poor time management. I spent too long on questions I wasn’t sure about instead of focusing on what I did know. My algebra habits — skipping small simplification checks or second-guessing my signs — also hurt my accuracy.

If I had completed my lecture blank notes earlier and done more homework repetition before the exam, I would’ve been able to recognize patterns faster and manage my time better. I realize now that confidence plays a huge role — I know I can learn this material, but I need to trust my process and practice earlier so I’m not catching up at the last minute.