Our vision at Understand The Math is to provide free, engaging mathematics instruction that empowers students, professionals, and lifelong learners to excel. Through YouTube videos, guided notes, and math-inspired resources, we strive to simplify learning and inspire a passion for mathematics within a supportive and vibrant community.

Mission and Values

Meet Cheryl Hile

With over 25 years of experience teaching mathematics at the university level, I’ve dedicated my career to helping students overcome challenges and achieve success.

I hold a BS in Mathematics from Penn State and a PhD in Engineering Science and Applied Mathematics from Northwestern University. My education emphasized the applied side of mathematics, exploring how math models real-world phenomena in business, science, and engineering. This background enables me to teach mathematics effectively to students in these fields.

Throughout my career at NJIT and Penn State as a professor, academic administrator, and adviser, I’ve seen students struggle when they:

  • Lack the foundational knowledge needed for success,

  • Need additional resources to clarify concepts,

  • Don’t receive adequate instruction, or

  • Have to learn material independently.

To address these challenges, I founded Understand The Math, offering free resources with:

  • Clear explanations,

  • Step-by-step problem-solving strategies, and

  • Worked-out examples.

Our content covers essential topics in algebra, trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations, empowering students to excel in their studies.

Student Testimonials

“Dr. Hile is a fantastic teacher who makes all the concepts easy to grasp and learn! The guided notes are very organized and help with understanding the content in a structured way.”  - Amber Chen

“Dr. Hile’s  instructional method was centered on meticulously crafted guided notes, which provided a structured approach to mastering complex mathematical concepts. Thanks to Dr. Hile's dedication and expertise, what initially seemed daunting became manageable and even enjoyable.”  - RJ Shontz

“Dr. Hile’s notes took such a complex topic and broke it down in an easy-to-follow manner. She provided just the right amount of examples, starting simple and progressing with each one. I’m happy that now she has the opportunity to share her knowledge and love of teaching with a wider group of students.”  - Maggie McQuillen

"Dr. Hile is one of the most thorough professors I've ever had, walking us through each step of the learning process with a meticulous and kind guiding hand that makes even the strangest concepts feel crystal clear. Her guided notes are a golden standard in my mind, a perfect reference for the future and full of great opportunities to learn right then and there."  - Elliott Rose 

“Dr. Hile was an incredible teacher and with her guided notes I flourished in her class more than I would have without them.”   - Madeleine Niewoehner