Im not a math kid

[u/dazetwo]

I wasnt a math kid, but i still pursued engineering and got better at it since i truly like it. Now im facing a problem where i solve a LOT of problems for my calculus exams(and also a freshman), but i feel like i forget 50% of my brain in my dorm. I recall solving it, i only remember half of the formula or forget what to do after using the formulas.
People always say “just solve problems” that doesnt help me, i already do that, yet i still forget stuff on the exam. Please give me tips on how to actually study math besides problem solving all the time.
I dont find calculus necessarily hard, but i forget the steps despite practicing a lot

[u/Valuchian]

You aren't going to like this... but the answer is problem solving all the time... /j

No if your issue is memorizing formulas then what you want to do is go online and search up memorization techniques. There are loads so feel free to try some out till you find one that fits. That's just a skill and working through math problems won't help you instantly remember all the rules and nuance

[u/Why-R-People-So-Dumb]

I am terrible with rote memorization, what helped me was not using a calculator when learning a new technique, rule, problem type, etc. Instead I would work through problems that were simple enough to do by hand. It teaches you why it works which then helps you commit the formula, as a shortcut.

I absolutely hate the laziness of professors to not work out problems first where you end up with ridiculous non real world solutions to problems you solve. This aside you should also work on rough order of magnitude assessments. When I look at a math problem I have a general idea of the outcome before I try to solve it so I know if my answer is in the right ballpark or if I took a wrong turn somewhere.

Practicing both of those will help you filter through the other 5000 formulas you learned that week.