Media Pendidikan Matematika
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): J-MPM

Students’ Mathematical Difficulties and Error Patterns in Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences and Series: A Systematic Literature Review

Syipa Lisfianisa (Program Studi Pendidikan Matematika, Fakultas Pendidikan Matematika dan Ilmu Pengetahuan Alam, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung)
Jarnawi Afgani Dahlan (Program Studi Pendidikan Matematika, Fakultas Pendidikan Matematika dan Ilmu Pengetahuan Alam, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung)
Sugeng Sungkono (Program Studi Pendidikan Matematika, Fakultas Pendidikan Matematika dan Ilmu Pengetahuan Alam, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study systematically examines students’ mathematical difficulties and error patterns encountered in learning arithmetic sequences and series. Using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, the literature search was conducted through international databases (Scopus), supporting databases (Google Scholar), and manual searches to ensure comprehensive coverage of relevant studies. Following the stages of identification, screening, and eligibility assessment, a total of 14 relevant empirical articles were selected for analysis. Data from these articles were extracted and analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on types of mathematical difficulties, students’ error patterns, contributing factors, and remediation strategies reported in the literature. The findings indicate that students’ difficulties in arithmetic sequences and series are predominantly characterized by weak conceptual understanding, difficulties in transforming contextual problems into mathematical models, and reliance on formula memorization without deep understanding. The most frequently observed error patterns include misinterpretation of problems, incorrect selection and application of formulas, procedural errors in calculations, and failure to verify solutions. The underlying causes of these difficulties are generally associated with memorization-oriented instruction, limited use of mathematical representations, and insufficient exposure to non-routine problems. These findings highlight the importance of instructional approaches that emphasize conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and the development of metacognitive awareness in teaching sequences and series.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jmpm

Publisher

Subject

Computer Science & IT Education Environmental Science Mathematics Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Media Pendidikan Matematika (MPM) focuses on publishing articles related to research results as well as the results of literature studies on mathematics education. This type of research can be in the form of classroom action research, experiments, qualitative research or other research. ...