Overview

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Develop the essential math skills needed to succeed in the skilled trades. In this course, you’ll learn how to read and convert fractions, perform everyday calculations, and apply key concepts like measurements, ratios, and percentages. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently solve common job-site problems and work with the numbers that drive real-world tasks across trades. This course is designed to give you a practical, easy-to-understand foundation in trades math. You’ll explore how math applies directly to tasks like converting inches to feet, calculating area, and interpreting measurements used daily by professionals in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and more. Whether you’re new to the trades or need a refresher, this course equips you with the core math skills needed to work efficiently and effectively.

Syllabus

Fractions

In this module, we will learn about the fundamental mathematical principles required for accuracy in the HVAC trades. We'll start by mastering how to read and visualize fractions using common tools like tape measures, then move into practical techniques for converting decimals to fractions and feet to inches. This lesson provides the essential toolkit for translating complex measurements into usable dimensions on the job.

Measurements

In this module, we will learn about the various units of measurement that trade professionals use every day to install and repair mechanical systems. We’ll explore the fundamentals of linear distance and elevation, the importance of weight in equipment support, and the more complex calculations involving pressure and temperature. This lesson previews how becoming comfortable with these different scales and units is a vital step toward becoming a successful technician in the field.

Ratios and Proportions

In this module, we will learn about the foundational roles that ratios and proportions play in daily trade operations, from reading blueprints to calculating material quantities. We’ll preview how to set up mathematical formulas for concrete mixtures and verify if mechanical equipment is operating correctly by checking for equal proportions. This lesson sets the stage for mastering the cross-multiplication skills needed to estimate materials and verify system specifications accurately on the job.

Percentages

This lesson introduces the essential role of percentages in trade industries, highlighting their use in measuring equipment efficiency, calculating mixture proportions, and determining tolerances. Learners will master the mechanics of converting values between fractions, decimals, and percentages, including the "two-digit rule" for decimal placement. Finally, it demonstrates how to solve practical percent equations using proportions to track job progress and chemical treatments.

Perimeter, Area and Volume

This lesson covers the fundamental mathematical principles of perimeter, area, and volume as they apply to trade work like piping and conduit installation. Learners will explore the distinct differences between two-dimensional measurements (distance around and space within a shape) and three-dimensional measurements (total space occupied by a solid). By practicing with specific formulas for squares, rectangles, and prisms, students will gain the skills necessary to accurately measure and calculate material requirements on the job.

Final Knowledge Check

This final knowledge check is designed to reinforce key concepts from the lesson and assess your understanding. You’ll apply what you’ve learned through a series of multiple choice questions, helping ensure you’re confident and ready to move forward.