Ability to focus improve math

Research led by Clancy Blair has found that

a thought process called "executive functioning," which governs the ability to reason and mentally focus, also plays a critical role in learning, especially when it comes to math skills.

Executive focus can be developed through training. Related abilities are "inhibitory control", the ability to keep impulses and new information from distracting us, and "working memory," the ability to keep related information in mind whilst working on a task. Inhibitory control is important for multitasking, which allows us to evaluate the many aspects and possible solutions of a complex issue without prematurely deciding on a certain approach.