A study conducted by Find a Super Tutor found that students in the United States are struggling the most with mathematics. Photo courtesy of Freepik

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - While the Christmas break is upon us, many students will be studying at home over the festive period and may be wondering how to receive a little extra support for the subject they find the hardest. 

With this in mind, education recruitment agency Find a Super Tutor investigated the subjects that students in the US are struggling with the most.  

The research analyzed the total number of Google searches for 118 subjects, applying 13 different search combinations for each, such as "help with mathematics" and "chemistry tutoring". Then, the ranking was calculated based on the subjects with the most to least average Google searches per month across the nation and in each state.

Mathematics was revealed to be the subject that California was struggling with the most, with a monthly average of 18,256 Google searches inquiring about help with the subject. Ranking as the subject with second-highest number of inquiries was Programming, with an average of 7,473 searches per month.  

Following in third was Spanish, with an average monthly search count of 7,228, whereas English Language followed in fourth with an average of 7,083 searches per month. Rounding out the top five was Calculus, with a monthly average of 1,995 searches. 

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.

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.  

Commenting on the findings, Joshua James, director of Find a Super Tutor, said, 

“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.”