<![CDATA[This study was motivated by the low mathematics learning outcomes of first-grade elementary school students, particularly on the topic of pictograph diagrams. The low learning outcomes were presumed to be caused by students' learning difficulties in understanding pictograph diagrams. This study aimed to identify students learning difficulties on the topic of pictograph diagrams and to analyze the factors contributing to these difficulties. The study employed a qualitative approach using a descriptive method. The research participants consisted of first-grade students and their classroom teacher at SDN Sendangguwo 02. Data were collected through observation, tests, and interviews, and were analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The trustworthiness of the data was ensured through source and technique triangulation. The findings revealed that students experienced learning difficulties related to visual perception, language comprehension, attention and memory, and spatial relationships. The factors contributing to these learning difficulties consisted of internal and external factors. Internal factors included limited cognitive ability in understanding pictograph concepts, difficulty in comprehending problem instructions, and limited memory capacity. External factors included a lack of parental assistance during home study and students' tendency to spend more time playing than studying. Based on the findings, teachers are encouraged to use visual media, concrete objects, and continuous practice accompanied by remedial instruction to help overcome students' learning difficulties. Future researchers are expected to investigate the effectiveness of various instructional strategies or learning media in addressing mathematics learning difficulties among elementary school students.]]>
