10 Tips to Strengthen Your Impact on Public Health

Public health plays a vital role in creating healthier, safer communities. It focuses on preventing diseases, promoting wellness, and improving the overall quality of life for people. Whether it’s through educating others, advocating for better policies, or working directly with communities, individuals can make a significant difference in this field.

Strengthening your impact on health initiatives doesn’t always require years of professional experience. Anyone can contribute meaningfully with the right knowledge, skills, and actions. From pursuing education to engaging with your local community, there are various ways to create positive change. This article outlines practical tips to help you make a stronger impact in this area.

1. Understand the Core Principles of Public Health

Before taking action, it’s important to understand the basics. Key principles include disease prevention, health promotion, and addressing inequalities in access to care. By learning these principles, you can focus your efforts where they are needed most. For example, promoting vaccination or educating people about nutrition are ways to prevent illness. Addressing disparities by supporting underserved communities ensures everyone has access to the necessary resources. With a solid foundation, you can approach health-related challenges more effectively.

2. Advance Your Education

Furthering your education is a key step toward making a greater impact in the field. By gaining deeper knowledge and specialized skills, you’ll be better equipped to address complex challenges and implement effective solutions. Advanced learning provides insights into areas like disease prevention and data analysis, all of which are critical to improving outcomes. Whether through formal education, workshops, or certifications, continued learning broadens your understanding and opens up new opportunities.

Pursuing an advanced degree can be transformative for those seeking to add value to the field. For those looking to make a more meaningful impact in public health, an online bachelors in public health offers the flexibility to gain essential skills while balancing personal and professional commitments. It also enhances your ability to contribute to community initiatives, advocate for meaningful policies, and collaborate effectively with other professionals.

3. Promote Health Education in Your Community

One of the most impactful ways to help is by educating others. This can be as simple as sharing information about healthy eating, exercise, or the importance of routine check-ups. When people have accurate information, they can make better decisions about their well-being. To spread awareness, consider partnering with local schools, community centers, or social groups. Even informal efforts, like talking to friends and family about important topics, can have a big effect. Health education is a powerful tool for improving outcomes and empowering individuals.

4. Advocate for Policy Changes

Policies play a huge role in shaping access to care and promoting wellness. By advocating for evidence- based policies, you can drive meaningful change. Examples include supporting smoking bans, promoting vaccinations, or pushing for better nutrition programs in schools. You don’t need to be a policy expert to get involved. Writing to local representatives, signing petitions, or joining advocacy groups are accessible ways to make your voice heard. Policy changes often have long-lasting effects, benefiting many people over time.

5. Volunteer with Public Health Organizations

Volunteering is an excellent way to make a direct impact. Many organizations work to improve access to care, distribute resources, and educate the public. By offering your time and skills, you can support these efforts and learn more about the challenges communities face. Look for opportunities with local health departments, non-profits, or global initiatives. Volunteering helps others and gives you valuable experience and insights into pressing challenges. It’s a hands-on way to make a difference while learning more about the field.

6. Leverage Technology to Improve Public Health

Technology offers countless tools to make efforts more effective and far-reaching. Mobile apps, data tracking systems, and online platforms allow professionals and community members to share information, monitor trends, and provide resources efficiently. For example, apps that track fitness or diet encourage healthier lifestyles, while tele-health services bring medical care to those in remote areas. Additionally, platforms like social media can spread health awareness quickly and widely. By staying informed about technological advancements and using these tools, you can contribute to better outcomes for individuals and communities.

7. Collaborate with Diverse Stakeholders

Improving health outcomes often requires teamwork. Collaboration with educators, healthcare providers, local governments, and non-profits can amplify your efforts. Each group brings unique perspectives and resources, making solutions more comprehensive and effective. For instance, working with schools to implement nutrition programs or teaming up with community centers to organize vaccination drives can address specific health needs. Building strong relationships with these stakeholders ensures a unified approach to solving challenges and creates a greater impact on overall well-being.

8. Address Health Disparities in Underserved Communities

Health disparities, such as unequal access to medical care or resources, remain a major challenge. Focusing efforts on underserved populations ensures that no one is left behind. Whether it’s providing education, facilitating access to healthcare, or advocating for policy changes, targeting these disparities can create lasting improvements. Consider volunteering at clinics in low-income neighborhoods, supporting food banks, or mentoring youth in underserved areas. These efforts help bridge the gap and ensure everyone has a fair chance at leading a healthy life.

9. Stay Informed About Emerging Public Health Issues

Staying updated on the latest trends and challenges is essential for anyone working to improve community well-being. Whether it’s responding to pandemics, addressing mental health crises, or tackling climate change’s impact on health, keeping yourself informed allows you to adapt your efforts effectively. Follow reliable sources like government health departments, research institutions, and trusted media outlets to stay ahead. Engaging in webinars, conferences, or reading scientific publications can also deepen your understanding. Knowledge is a powerful tool that helps you make informed decisions and contribute more effectively.

10. Measure and Celebrate Your Impact

Evaluating the results of your efforts is crucial to understanding what works and what doesn’t. Tracking outcomes through data collection or personal observations provides valuable insights for future initiatives. For example, measuring participation rates and improvements can help refine your approach if you start a community fitness program. It’s also important to celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Acknowledging your progress keeps you motivated and inspires others to get involved. Sharing successes, like a completed project or a positive outcome, reinforces the importance of your work and builds momentum for future efforts.

Improving public health is a shared responsibility that requires dedication, education, and collaboration. By applying these tips—embracing technology, working with others, addressing disparities, staying informed, and celebrating milestones—you can make a meaningful difference in your community. Whether you’re pursuing advanced education in public health, volunteering, or advocating for policy change, your efforts contribute to healthier and more equitable outcomes. Remember, small steps add up, and each action brings us closer to a healthier future for all.

8 Ways to Nurture Your Child’s Mental Health

Mental health is a vital aspect of a child’s overall well-being. Just as you prioritize your child’s physical health with nutritious meals and regular exercise, their mental health deserves equal attention. A child with a strong mental foundation grows into a more resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy adult. Mental health influences how children cope with challenges, build relationships, and navigate their academic and social environments. By taking proactive steps to nurture your child’s mental health, you can help them develop the tools they need to handle life’s ups and downs. Even small, consistent efforts can make a significant difference. Here are eight practical ways to support your child’s mental health, starting with creating a safe and supportive environment.

1. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment

A secure and nurturing home is crucial for a child’s mental health. Children need to feel loved, accepted, and safe to thrive emotionally. Start by fostering open communication, where your child knows they can
share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Be present and engaged in their lives. Simple actions, like sharing meals, spending quality time, and showing interest in their daily experiences, can help build trust. Encourage them to express their emotions and reassure them that it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or scared. By creating a stable and
supportive environment, you provide the foundation for your child’s mental well-being.

2. Connect with a Professional Counselor

Sometimes, children face challenges that require guidance from a professional counselor. Counselors trained in child psychology can help your child navigate complex emotions and develop coping strategies. If your child is showing signs of persistent stress, anxiety, or behavioral changes, reaching out to a counselor can make a big difference. Many professionals now obtain their qualifications through counseling degree programs online, which makes expert help more accessible than ever. Counselors can work with your child individually or as part of family therapy sessions. Seeking professional help isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a proactive step toward your child’s mental health.

3. Encourage Open Communication

Open communication is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to nurture your child’s mental health. Let your child know that their voice matters and that you’re there to listen without judgment.

Create opportunities for meaningful conversations, whether during dinner, car rides, or bedtime routines. Use open-ended questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “How are you feeling about school?” This approach encourages them to share more than just “yes” or “no” answers.

When your child talks, listen attentively. Avoid interrupting or dismissing their feelings, even if they seem minor to you. Validating their emotions shows that you respect and care for their inner world.

4. Teach Stress-Management Techniques

Children, like adults, experience stress, and teaching them how to manage it can significantly improve their mental health. Introduce age-appropriate stress-management techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or journaling.

For younger children, guided breathing exercises can help calm their minds during stressful moments. Older kids might benefit from mindfulness apps or keeping a journal to express their thoughts.

Encourage activities that naturally reduce stress, such as playing outside, drawing, or engaging in hobbies. Teaching these skills early helps your child build emotional resilience and cope better with challenges.

5. Prioritize Physical Activity and Nutrition

Physical health is closely tied to mental well-being. Regular physical activity helps reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance focus. Exercise releases endorphins, which naturally boost feelings of happiness and

relaxation. Encourage your child to participate in activities they enjoy, such as biking, swimming, or team sports. Even a daily walk or a fun dance session at home can make a difference.

Nutrition also plays a key role in mental health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports brain health and emotional stability. Limit processed foods and sugary snacks, as these can lead to energy crashes and mood swings. By emphasizing physical activity and good nutrition, you give your child the foundation for a healthy body and mind.

6. Set Healthy Boundaries for Technology

Technology is a significant part of children’s lives, but excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health. Spending too much time on screens can contribute to sleep issues, social isolation, and increased anxiety.

Set clear boundaries for technology use. Encourage screen-free times during meals, before bedtime, and during family activities. Offer alternatives, such as board games, outdoor play, or creative projects, to keep your child engaged offline.

Teach your child how to use technology mindfully. Discuss the importance of balancing online and offline activities, and guide them in recognizing the difference between productive screen time (like educational apps) and passive consumption (like endless scrolling).

7. Monitor Changes in Behavior

Children often express emotional struggles through changes in behavior rather than words. Pay attention to shifts in their mood, appetite, sleep patterns, or social interactions. These changes could indicate stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.

For instance, a normally outgoing child who becomes withdrawn or a high-energy child who suddenly seems fatigued may be experiencing challenges they need help addressing. Gently ask open-ended questions to understand what’s going on and listen to their responses without judgment.

If you notice persistent changes or signs of distress, consider seeking support from a counselor or pediatrician. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from developing into larger problems.

8. Be a Positive Role Model

Children learn by observing the adults in their lives. When you demonstrate healthy coping mechanisms and prioritize your own mental health, you set a powerful example for your child.

Show your child how you manage stress, whether it’s through deep breathing, taking breaks, or discussing your feelings. Practice self-care and let them see that it’s okay to prioritize emotional well-being.

Express gratitude, show kindness, and maintain a positive outlook, even during challenging times. When your child sees these behaviors modeled consistently, they are more likely to adopt them in their own lives.

Supporting your child’s mental health is one of the most important roles you can play as a parent. By focusing on their emotional well-being, you help them build resilience, confidence, and the tools to handle life’s challenges.

From creating a safe environment and encouraging open communication to promoting physical activity and monitoring behavioral changes, every effort counts. Seeking professional support when needed and modeling healthy behaviors further reinforce your child’s mental health journey.

Remember, small, consistent actions can have a lasting impact. By nurturing your child’s mental health today, you’re setting them up for a happier, healthier future. Every step you take is an investment in their emotional growth and well-being.

What are Top 10 Essential Steps for Prostate Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions. Before incorporating any herbal remedies into your routine, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Prostate wellness is crucial for maintaining overall health in men, especially as they age. Most men don’t think about their prostate health until problems arise. Taking proactive steps towards maintaining prostate health can reduce the risk of complications, including prostate cancer. By making lifestyle changes, focusing on dietary choices, and committing to regular screenings, men can significantly impact their prostate wellness.

For many, incorporating simple strategies such as engaging in regular physical activity and choosing a nutrient-rich diet are effective starting points. Regular check-ups and preventive screenings also play a vital role. Consulting healthcare professionals and exploring natural health resources like Ben’s Natural Health can provide further guidance and supplementation options.

Understanding the significance of these steps can empower individuals to take charge of their health. Proactive management not only promotes wellness but also offers peace of mind in preventing future issues. The following sections will detail ten essential steps that men can take to support their prostate health.

Key Takeaways

Proactive steps can reduce prostate health risks.
Lifestyle and diet changes are essential.
Regular screenings are vital for prevention.

Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments for Prostate Health

Adopting specific lifestyle and dietary changes can significantly enhance prostate health. Important considerations include eating a balanced diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress.

Adopt a Prostate-Friendly Diet

A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports prostate health. Incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes and broccoli can provide antioxidants like lycopene, which are beneficial. Whole grains are also essential for fiber intake, which aids digestion.

Healthy fats are important, too. Sources such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon support overall wellness. It’s wise to limit red meat and processed foods. Consumption of unhealthy fats should be minimized. Overall, nutrition plays a vital role in keeping the prostate healthy.

Incorporate Regular Physical Activity

Engaging in regular exercise promotes overall health and specifically benefits prostate wellness. Activities like walking, jogging, or cycling boost circulation and help regulate weight. Strength training is also beneficial as it can enhance muscle mass, supporting metabolic health.

Exercise contributes positively to hormonal balance and helps reduce risks associated with prostate issues. It is important to stay consistent with physical activity routines for the best results. People should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. This can include a mix of aerobic and strength-based workouts.

Maintain a Healthy Weight and Hydration Level

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for prostate health. Weight management can prevent inflammation and other health risks. A prostate-friendly diet aids in achieving this balance. Limiting alcohol consumption is advisable as excess intake can interfere with weight control efforts.

Good hydration is equally important. Drinking plenty of water helps in detoxification processes and keeps the body functioning optimally. Proper hydration supports kidney health and reduces strain on the urinary tract, which is beneficial for prostate health. Individuals should aim to drink about 8 cups of water daily, adjusting based on individual needs.

Manage Stress Through Mindfulness Practices

Stress management is essential for both mental well-being and physical health. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga help reduce stress levels. These activities contribute to better hormonal balance and can decrease tension in the body.

Mindfulness practices have a calming effect and can enhance attention and emotional regulation. Regular engagement in stress-reducing techniques may support better prostate wellness. Incorporating just a few minutes of relaxation practices each day can help individuals handle stress more effectively and maintain overall health.

Preventive Screening and Supplementation

Taking care of prostate health is crucial for long-term wellness. Men should consider both regular screenings and thoughtful supplementation to maintain proper prostate function. These steps can aid in early detection and support overall health.

Understand and Perform Regular Prostate Screenings

Regular screenings for prostate health are essential. The digital rectal exam (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test are common methods. The DRE involves a physician checking the prostate for abnormalities. The PSA test measures levels of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. Elevated levels can indicate prostate problems like cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Starting screenings at age 50 is typical, but those with a family history may need to begin earlier. Early detection helps manage prostate enlargement and reduce cancer risk. Regular check-ups and consultations with a healthcare provider can personalize screening schedules based on individual risk factors. Screening plays a significant role in maintaining prostate health and preventing complications.

Consider Natural Supplements and Their Benefits

Natural supplements can support prostate health by reducing inflammation and improving urinary function. Saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol are popular choices. These can help alleviate symptoms of BPH. Stinging nettle and pygeum may also support hormone regulation and improve urinary flow.

Green tea and zinc are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce prostatitis risk. Herbal supplements can be an effective way to maintain prostate wellness naturally. Exploring options like natural supplements may provide additional benefits. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements to ensure they are appropriate for individual health needs.

Conclusion

Ensuring prostate wellness involves a combination of healthy habits and lifestyle choices. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine health check-ups play critical roles in maintaining prostate health.

It’s important to limit alcohol, avoid smoking, and stay informed about potential signs of prostate issues. Consulting with healthcare professionals can also provide tailored advice and support.

By incorporating these steps into daily life, individuals can promote better long-term prostate health.

Vocabulary Building Techniques in Science

Teaching Strategies for Making Connections With Science Concepts

A multidimensional approach to supporting students’ learning related to science vocabulary is shown using graphic organizers, differentiated instruction, and more.

Vocabulary building in science is a difficult task for students and requires a variety of teaching strategies by teachers. A typical science textbook introduces 10 to 30 new vocabulary words every chapter. Students are faced with making sense of these new science words and connecting them to concepts in a relatively short period. Students are also required to connect these new words with information gained from prior knowledge and experiences in science.

Science vocabulary building requires more than rote memorization as one teaching strategy, which only leads to short-term knowledge gain. Since long-term knowledge gain of vocabulary is the goal, students must be exposed to all new science words at least six times in different contexts (“Learning Vocabulary Through Reading,” American Educational Research Journal, Volume 21 Issue 4, 1984).

Examples of exposure to science words in different contexts include:

Reading
KWL Organizers
Venn Diagrams
Videos
Hands-on, Minds-on Explorations
Explaining Using Own Terms
Illustrations
Vocabulary Lists

Graphic Organizers

The following are types of graphic organizers used as teaching strategies to help students learn science words in different contexts for vocabulary building.

Concept Definition Map – using an essential science vocabulary word placed in the center of the graphic that supports a science concept. One example is thermal energy. The descriptive words associated with this vocabulary word are written in boxes surrounding the concept word. For example – heat, energy transformation, etc. This concept definition map technique helps students develop a definition of the vocabulary word and make connections with prior knowledge and experiences, similar to how a PhD research proposal writing service helps scholars define and connect their research ideas.

Vocabulary Concept Cards – in this vocabulary-building technique students select a science word from the vocabulary list and write the word on one side of an index card. Then divide the other side of the index card into quadrants.

The left-hand side quadrants are:

What the word is using own words
What the vocabulary word is not using own words

The right-hand quadrants are:

Examples (next to what the word is) using drawings, words, or sentence
Definition (next to what the word is not) provided by textbook or teacher-provided resource

Other Graphic Organizers – examples of these vocabulary builders include KWLs, Venn Diagrams, Concept Maps, Mind Maps, or Word Maps.

Teaching Strategies

Additional teaching strategies that support students when learning science vocabulary words include a science nature journal, writing in science, and a science newsletter project. These three alternatives involve students writing stories that incorporate science words in a manner that helps them develop a better understanding of the science concepts behind the words.

Differentiated Instruction

Every science classroom has students with a wide range of abilities. This is the challenge all teachers face and the following are teaching strategies to address these concerns.

Differentiate Vocabulary Lists – this vocabulary building technique addresses the needs of all students including gifted and talented or advanced students, struggling students, students with learning disabilities, and all other students. This is accomplished by dividing the vocabulary list into three sections.

These sections are:

Science words all students must know in a chapter
Enrichment vocabulary words for gifted and talented students who need the extra challenge
Essential words struggling students and students with learning disabilities must learn to remain on grade level

Individualized Vocabulary Lists – this vocabulary-building technique allows students to create their list. The list must include essential science words deemed necessary by the teacher and then students select additional vocabulary words from a list of enrichment words. This technique provides students with extra credit for learning enrichment words. This works well in a class with several gifted or advanced students who want the challenge.

Alternative Assessments – differentiated or individualized vocabulary requires alternative assessments. Teachers allow students to draw pictures, write descriptions, or explain definitions based on the ability level of the student. A simple rubric is then used to determine the mastery level of each of the science words.

Making Connections with Vocabulary Building in Science

Traditional science vocabulary building involves rote memorization and recall of vocabulary, which only leads to short-term gains. However, building vocabulary knowledge requires a multi-dimensional approach. Science is a subject best learned through hands-on, minds-on experiences and this lends itself to teaching strategies that use a variety of learning strategies. Because of the way science is typically taught, students have the opportunity to view and learn science vocabulary in many contexts.

Conclusion

Building vocabulary in science is a complex task that requires more than just rote memorization. Effective vocabulary teaching strategies must incorporate diverse methods, including graphic organizers, differentiated instruction, and contextual exposure. Students benefit from experiencing new science terms multiple times in different contexts, which helps them connect these terms with prior knowledge and deeper science concepts.

By using tools like concept definition maps, vocabulary concept cards, and differentiated vocabulary lists, teachers can cater to the varying needs of all students. Additionally, integrating creative projects like science journals and newsletters further solidifies students’ understanding by encouraging them to use new vocabulary in meaningful ways.

Overall, a multidimensional approach to vocabulary building in science not only aids in short-term retention but also fosters long-term comprehension and application of scientific concepts. Vocabulary building in science can be as challenging as understanding complex math concepts, often requiring additional support similar to what students might seek when searching for a math tutor. The right teaching strategies, along with an affordable math tutor price, can significantly enhance students’ ability to grasp both vocabulary and science concepts.

Checklist for Implementing Vocabulary Building Techniques in Science

Expose Students to New Vocabulary in Multiple Contexts
- Reading assignments
- KWL organizers
- Venn diagrams
- Educational videos
- Hands-on, minds-on explorations
- Encouraging explanations using students’ own words
- Illustrations
- Vocabulary lists
- Graphic organizers
Use Graphic Organizers
- Concept Definition Maps
- Vocabulary Concept Cards
- KWLs, Venn Diagrams, Concept Maps, Mind Maps, Word Maps
Incorporate Creative Projects
- Science nature journals
- Writing in science activities
- Science newsletter projects
Implement Differentiated Instruction
- Differentiate vocabulary lists for varying student abilities
- Individualize vocabulary lists based on student choice and teacher requirements
- Use alternative assessments tailored to student ability levels
Encourage Hands-on, Minds-on Learning
- Integrate practical activities that relate vocabulary to real-world applications
- Provide opportunities for students to experiment and explore scientific concepts
Assess and Adapt
- Use rubrics to evaluate students’ mastery of vocabulary
- Adjust teaching strategies based on student performance and feedback

By following this checklist, educators can create a rich, supportive environment for vocabulary learning in science, helping students not only remember terms but also understand and apply scientific concepts in various contexts.

Significant Figures Worksheet(Sig Figs): Definition, Examples, and Practice

Meta: Whether you’re relatively new to significant figures or are just looking for a refresher, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more!

Significant Figures (Sig Figs): Definition, Examples, and Practice

Significant figures are a vital concept when you’re working in any field that requires precision; chemistry, for example. And while it feels like a complex subject, it’s fairly simple and straightforward. In this article, we’re answering your questions about significant figures and prepping you for significant figures worksheets with lots of examples.

Reason for Significant Figures

We can all agree that there’s nothing worse than complicated mathematics concepts that don’t seem to have anything to do with real life. Fortunately, that’s not the case with significant figures! The primary purpose for this somewhat abstract concept is precision.

The numbers we use in everyday life, as it turns, are not that precise. When you’re working in specialized fields, however, the precision of the data is everything. Significant figures help you communicate how precisely you’ve measured and help to ensure mistakes are made with the data.

Let’s Build a Tower

Here’s an example: let’s say you’re building a tower. As you might imagine, precision matters hugely. You don’t want to get to the top of the tower only to realize your tower is taller–or shorter!–than you thought. Let’s say, then, that the steel manufacturer has measured its vertical beams to the nearest centimeter and is sending you three beams that are each 20.5 meters tall.

This measurement is precise to the centimeter, but the number doesn’t tell you anything about millimeters. This is a problem because the glass you’re cutting to cover the building in is measured to the nearest millimeter; in fact, the glass company is sending the glass to you in 15.75-meter sheets.

You know that your steel beams will stand end to end and that your finished tower will be (20.5*3) meters tall, or 61.5 meters tall. Three glass sheets will be 47.25 meters tall; too short. Four glass sheets will be 63 meters tall; too tall. You’ll need to lay three sheets of glass and cut the fourth to size. Now you need to figure out how much you should cut down that fourth sheet of glass.

The Problem With Imprecision

Here’s the problem: your steel is measured to the centimeter, but the glass cutter cuts to the millimeter. Each steel beam is 20.5 meters, which means it’s twenty meters and five centimeters; but how many millimeters is it?

We don’t know. It could be three millimeters (20.53 meters), or it could be seven millimeters (20.57 meters). Let’s say it’s the latter, and your three steel beams each have an extra seven millimeters that you don’t know about because they’ve only been measured to the nearest centimeter.

You think you’ve only got 61.5 meters of a tower (because 20.5*3 = 61.5) but you have 61.71 meters (because 20.57*3 = 61.71). That’s a difference of .21 meters, or a whopping two centimeters and one millimeter! If you cut your glass to 61.5 meters, you’ll get to the top of the tower to install it–only to realize you’re missing two centimeters and a millimeter of glass.

Oops!

This is an oversimplified example, but it helps to illustrate how important precision is–and now you know how significant figures work, even if you don’t know the concept by that name yet. That’s for the next section!

Rules for Significant Figures

The first thing you should remember is that significance doesn’t indicate whether a number is computed or not; it simply indicates the precision of measurement. We’ll explain; let’s start with the basic ground rules about significant figures, and then we’ll practice with some examples you might see on a significant figures worksheet:

If it’s not a zero, the number is a significant figure (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are all significant no matter where they are in the number)
If a zero is between a non-zero digit, it is significant (e.g., the zeros in these numbers are significant: 507, 5007, 5000.07)
Trailing zeros (the zeros at the end of a number) are only significant if the number has a decimal point (e.g., 5.0500 or 5.50); they are not significant if there are no decimal points (e.g., 500 or 50) (special note: in the latter case, significance can be indicated with a bar above or below the last measured figure)
Leading zeros (zeros before non-zeros) are never significant (e.g., 005 or 0.005)

EXAMPLES

51 has two significant figures (5 and 1; all numbers are non-zeros)
1234.56 has six significant figures (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6; all numbers are non-zeros)
505.5505 has seven significant figures (5, 5, 0, 5, 5, 0, and 5; all non-zeros are significant, and all zeros between non-zeros are significant)
0.0057 has two significant figures (5 and 7; the zeros are leading and are not significant)
500 and 50 each have one significant figure (5 and 5; trailing zeros are not significant unless there is a decimal point)
5.0500 has five significant figures (5, 0, 5, 0, and 0; the first zero is between two non-zeros and the trailing zeros are significant because the number contains a decimal)
0.00050500 has five significant figures also (remember that leading zeros do not count)
1300 has two significant figures (one and three) while 1300. has four significant figures (1, 3, 0, and 0) because the latter number has a decimal point

Multiplying, Dividing, Adding, and Subtracting with Significant Figures

Before we get into the mechanics of multiplying, dividing, adding, and subtracting with significant figures, you’ll first need to know how to round up significant figures. For example, if you have a number (let’s say 54.896) that has five significant figures, and you need to round it up to three significant figures, how do you do that?

Rounding Up

Here’s how:

Identify the significant figures (in our example, there are five significant numbers: 5, 4, 8, 9, and 6)
Identify the last of the desired significant figures (we know we need three significant figures, so eight, the third significant figure from the left, is the last significant figure)
Look at the number to the right of the significant figure. If it is five or greater, add one to the last significant figure (in our example, eight is followed by nine; nine is greater than 5; therefore, eight is rounded up by 1 to 9 so that our new number is 54.9). If, however, the number is four or less, simply remove all the remaining numbers to the left (don’t replace them with zeros)

Here’s another example using 0.01234500:

If you want to round it to three significant figures, the answer would be 0.0123 (leading zeros are not significant; 4 is less than five, so 4 and all subsequent numbers are removed).

Special note: rounding significant figures is different than rounding decimals. For example, if you wanted to round our example number to three decimal places, the answer would be .012, which is a different number altogether from a precision standpoint.

Multiplying and Dividing

When you begin working seriously with multiplying and dividing, you’ll notice how quickly things can move from precise to imprecise. For example, let’s go back to our tower example and say we want to measure the area of our glass sheets. They are 15.75 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide.

A simple calculation (15.75*2.5=39.375) tells us the area is 39.375, but if you’re thinking, “wait! That measurement is more precise than what we measured!” you’d be right. To keep our quotients and products as precise as our initial measurements, we need to round up (or down).

The general rule is that the significant figures in the answer cannot be more than the smallest amount of significant figures used in the equation. In our glass sheets example, the two numbers we multiplied are 15.75 (which has four significant figures) and 2.5 (which has two significant figures). The smallest number of significant figures in either of these factors is two, so our answer can’t have more than two significant figures.

Our answer (39.375) has five significant figures, with 9 being the second significant figure. The number to the right of 9 is 3, which is less than 5, so we simply discard 3 and everything to its right. Our answer, then, is 40. (9 rolls to the 0 and the 3 becomes a 4; also note the use of the decimal!).

Adding and Subtracting

Adding and subtracting numbers with different amounts of significant digits is very similar to multiplying and dividing, except that the rounding up (or down) happens before the calculation.

Back to our tower example, let’s say you had one steel beam that was 20.5 meters and one that was 20.45 meters, you are dealing with two different levels of precision. The first beam has three significant figures and is less precise than the second beam, which has four significant figures.

If you add them together as is, it’s just messy. So, you need to round up the more precise number so that it matches the least precise number. That is, you would round up 20.45 to 20.5 and add both numbers (20.5 + 20.5 = 41.0; note that the answer is also precise to three significant figures).

Hopefully, significant figures are no longer mystifying, and you’re ready to tackle your significant figures worksheet; good luck!