Casual observation tells us that most people don’t use math beyond simple arithmetic in everyday life. Few people make use of fractions, trigonometry, or multi-digit division algorithms they use in school. More advanced tools like algebra or calculus are even less likely to be brought out to solve everyday problems.

I see three explanations for the failure to use math in everyday life:

1. Most people don’t learn math well enough to use it effortlessly.

2. We learn school math but fail to translate real problems into a format where we can apply our math knowledge.

3. Most higher math isn’t u...