New NMIP Primer Spotlights Mathematical Fluency as a Key Lever for Learning
As the National Math Improvement Project (NMIP), we believe that every student is capable of being a problem-solver and must acquire fluency skills to meet that potential.
Today, we’re excited to release Mathematical Fluency: A Practical Primer—a concise, accessible resource designed to ground educators, leaders, and stakeholders in the essential components of mathematical fluency and why it matters.
Why Fluency? Why Now?
For too long, math fluency has been narrowly defined as speed and correctness. But as Dr. Jennifer Bay-Williams articulates, “Fluency is not just about knowing your algorithms—it’s about flexibility, efficiency, and accuracy. As a nation, we hyperfocus on accuracy at the expense of efficiency and flexibility.”
This primer challenges outdated notions of fluency— equating to timed tests of multiplication tables and rote memorization— and instead articulates a research-based definition of fluency that includes flexibility, efficiency, and accuracy.
What’s Inside the Primer
A clear, research-grounded definition of fluency that extends beyond rote memorization to include conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and strategic competence
Insights from Adding It Up and the National Mathematics Advisory Panel on the five strands of mathematical proficiency
Commentary from national experts — Dr. Bay-Williams and Dr. Afi Wiggins — emphasizing fluency as a foundation for equity, creativity, and success in math
A call to shift away from narrow definitions of success and toward high-quality, meaningful instruction that nurtures flexible, confident problem-solvers
As districts work to close opportunity gaps and improve math outcomes, fluency is emerging as a key lever—particularly in the transition from basic computation to higher-order thinking in Algebra I and beyond. Without fluency, students may be fast, but not nimble. With it, they are empowered to explore, adjust, and thrive.
Dr. Afi Wiggins puts it best:
“Everyone is a math person. Every learner can thrive and be fluent in math when given opportunities to access high-quality instruction and meaningful learning opportunities.”
Explore & Share
We invite you to read and share the primer—and to join us in reimagining fluency as a core component of math equity, access, and achievement.
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