Students in Iowa find math most-challenging subject, data reveals

MASON CITY – Mathematics is the subject students in Iowa are struggling with the most, according to a new study, followed by programming and Spanish.

Mathematics was revealed to be the subject that students were struggling with the most across the US, with a monthly average of 125,929 Google searches inquiring about help with the subject. Iowa struggled with the subject the most, with an average monthly 59.11 searches per 100,000 people. “Help with math” was revealed to be the most popular search term across the nation.

Ranking as the subject with second-highest number of inquiries was Spanish, with an average of 44,930 searches per month. Students in California had the most difficulty with the subject, with an average of 18.55 monthly Google searches per 100,000 people.

Following in third was Programming, with an average monthly search count of 40,730. New Jersey found the subject the hardest, with an average of 22.32 monthly searches in the state per 100,000 people.

In fourth was English Language with an average of 14,024 searches per month. The subject was most problematic for students in Nevada, with the state averaging 8.24 monthly searches per 100,000 people.

Rounding out the top five was Information Technology, with an average of 12,873 searches per month across the US. Maryland reported the highest number of searches related to the subject, with a monthly average of 4.91 per 100,000 people.

Chemistry and American Sign Language followed in sixth and seventh place, with average monthly search counts of 8,408 and 7,760, respectively. 

Other subjects that students struggled with were SAT Prep, with an average of 7,552 monthly searches, and Calculus, with an average of 6,857 monthly searches, whereas Japanese completed the top 10, averaging 6,718 monthly searches. 

“There are strong patterns among the subjects that students are struggling with the most. Most of the subjects fall under either the STEM or languages category. Some of the hardest school subjects to learn include mathematics and other scientific disciplines such as programming, information technology, chemistry, and calculus. These subjects can be challenging for students because they involve abstract concepts, logical reasoning, and require learners to memorize large amounts of information.

“For instance, calculus requires a solid foundation in algebra and trigonometry, and without this, students can quickly fall behind. Similarly, programming and IT demand not only technical knowledge but also the ability to think algorithmically and troubleshoot complex problems. Students who struggle in STEM often benefit from interactive tools like coding simulators, virtual labs, and personalized tutoring platforms, which allow for a more hands-on and tailored learning experience.

“Language subjects also pose challenges, but of a different nature. English and foreign languages such as Spanish, Japanese, and American Sign Language require mastery of vocabulary, grammar, and cultural context, all of which can vary widely from a student’s native language. 

“Japanese, for example, has multiple writing systems and a syntax that significantly differs from English, while ASL relies on spatial reasoning and visual cues that are not intuitive for everyone. Even English, often assumed to be straightforward for native speakers, contains complex grammar rules and idiomatic expressions that can confuse learners.

“Online support for language learning has become highly sophisticated, with resources like language exchange communities, immersive audio-visual content, and AI-powered apps such as Duolingo offering real-time feedback and personalized practice routines. These tools can significantly enhance engagement and retention, helping students overcome the hurdles these subjects often present.

“Regardless of what subject you or your child is struggling with, there is always support available. If you need help beyond what online resources may be able to offer, hiring a part-time tutor can be the perfect solution. Tutors are typically experts in their chosen area and can provide specialized, high-quality support to improve grades and understanding of the subject.”