Abbreviated Math Anxiety Scale (AMAS) Test

The IDRlabs Abbreviated Math Anxiety Scale was developed by IDRlabs, based on the Abbreviated Math Anxiety Scale (AMAS).

Math anxiety is a feeling of tension, fear, or apprehension that interferes with a person’s ability to perform mathematical tasks. It can affect individuals of all ages, from young students to adults, and often results in avoidance of math-related activities. This anxiety is not just about disliking math but involves a deep-rooted fear that can impact academic performance and confidence.

The causes of math anxiety vary, but they often include negative experiences with math, pressure from teachers or parents, and a fear of failure. Some individuals develop anxiety due to past struggles with math, which creates a cycle of avoidance and poor performance. A lack of foundational skills can also contribute, making math feel overwhelming and impossible to grasp.

Math anxiety can manifest in both physical and psychological symptoms. Some people experience nervousness, sweating, or an increased heart rate when faced with math tasks, while others struggle with self-doubt, frustration, or even panic. These symptoms can interfere with problem-solving abilities, leading to further difficulties and reinforcing the fear of math.

Overcoming math anxiety requires a combination of strategies, including building a strong foundation in math concepts, practicing in a low-pressure environment, and changing one’s mindset about failure. Encouraging a growth mindset—believing that math skills can improve with effort—can help individuals approach math with more confidence. Support from teachers, parents, and peers can also make a significant difference.

Addressing math anxiety is crucial because it can impact academic success, career choices, and even everyday tasks involving numbers. By recognizing the signs of math anxiety and taking proactive steps to manage it, individuals can develop a more positive relationship with math and improve their overall performance.

As the publishers of this free test, which allows you to screen yourself for math anxiety traits, we have strived to make the test as reliable and valid as possible by subjecting this test to statistical controls and validation. However, free online quizzes such as the present test do not provide professional assessments or recommendations of any kind; the test is provided entirely “as-is.” For more information about any of our online tests and quizzes, please consult our Terms of Service.