[Math] How to improve writing mathematics

Question

My first language is not English. How can I improve my mathematical writing. I feel like the only things I can write down are numbers and equations. Is there any good suggestion for improving writing, especially for mathematical writing (math-philosophy)?

Answer 1

I want to highlight two tools for learning: imitation and practice.

Read a lot of mathematics. You will find that some texts are easier to follow than others. What makes you like a text? What texts do you like most? When you write, try to write as your favorite author would. If you keep on writing mathematics long enough, you will find your own voice, but imitation is a necessary first step.

Write a lot. You say you can write numbers and equations. What are they about? Explain. It doesn't have to be perfect, but explain it in your own words. Tell a story about your calculation. What would you say out loud to explain your work to a fellow student? Write that down. Try to make a habit out of making explained calculations that anyone could read.

Lastly, if you don't know how to write something, ask for help. Composing good mathematical prose is not trivial, and learning it is an important part of any degree in mathematics. You are entitled for help with it, not only with your calculations.

If I understand correctly, your problem is in writing relatively simple and short things. Writing and structuring a thesis, a paper, or other extended piece of work is a story I will exclude here.