Why do students find proofs so difficult in Geometry?

Question

Geometry proofs require a shift in reasoning. Here's how I help students approach them with confidence.

Answer 1

Proofs are such a struggle for students! It definitely stretches their reasoning skill like nothing else can! There are several strategies that can help.

1. Mark your diagram. This is the hill that I will die on! You should never work any geometry problem without marking the diagram! Put on the given information, and then any information that can be concluded just from the diagram (like vertical angles, for instance).
2. Work the proof on the diagram before trying to work out the proof itself.
3. Do all the statements first and then go back and do the reasons.
4. Consider doing a flow chart before the actual proof.
5. For a lot of students, work backwards. Start with what you're trying to prove, and think about what could create that outcome and figure out how your givens will get you there.

Answer 2

Many students struggle with Geometry proofs because they shift from computation to logic. It’s no longer just “solve for x”—it’s about justifying every step with definitions, theorems, and postulates.

I teach students to treat proofs like a math version of writing: identify what’s given, what needs to be shown, and then outline the steps that connect the two logically. We use sentence starters, visual flow charts, and pattern recognition to build comfort. Over time, students gain confidence not just in proofs—but in their overall reasoning skills.