ALEKS Math

General Summary

• Adaptive, online math program using AI assessment
• Covers math content from grades 3-12 (with some newer K-2 options)
• Self-paced with personalized learning path for each student
• Subscription-based with various pricing tiers
• Mastery-based approach with regular progress assessments

Adaptive Learning: Personalized Math Instruction

Parents appreciate the way ALEKS targets each student's specific needs:

"I could not be more pleased with ALEKS... I've used ALEKS for three years with both my son who struggled in math and my son who was gifted in math... [I've] seen almost unbelievable jumps in one son's abilities while the other son was able to soar 2-3 grade levels above his own grade."

TheHomeSchoolMom Review

"It avoids the repetition of mastered material that drives gifted learners nuts while assuring they really do know what they think they know."

Quarks and Quirks Blog

Independent Learning: Self-Directed Progress

The ability for students to work independently is frequently mentioned as a benefit:

"Pros: Independent work (does not require Mom)... Moves at the student's pace."

TheHomeSchoolMom Review

"We use ALEKS as a review tool, not a primary learning tool. [My son] LOVES using ALEKS to review what he has already learned at the end of each term."

TheHomeSchoolMom Review

Instruction Limitations: Teaching vs. Practice

Many parents note that ALEKS works better for practice than for initial instruction:

"ALEKS doesn't provide much instruction and [it] works better as supplemental practice, according to many reviewers."

Orison Orchards

"ALEKS is great for review of topics that have been taught… [but] doesn't work as well as a primary way to learn new material."

The Well Trained Mind Forum

"Second, written examples and instructions just don't cut it all the time. While for some learners it may be sufficient, it's just not for my son."

Quarks and Quirks Blog

Knowledge Checks: Frustration with Assessments

A common complaint involves ALEKS's periodic assessment system:

"Why does it take so much time, even if you already know it? If you make a single mistake on a knowledge check you have to do it all again."

TheHomeSchoolMom Review

"A big frustrating jumble of poorly explained math lessons, and ONE mistake in a lesson can make you redo the ENTIRE lesson!... [During] a knowledge check... ONE SIMPLE MISTAKE can lead to FIVE ENTIRE QUIZZES OF QUESTIONS TO BE GONE!"

TheHomeSchoolMom Review

Engagement: Plain Interface and Motivation

The basic interface can be a hurdle for some students:

"The program lacks manipulatives and graphics that benefit visual and kinesthetic learners. No teaching videos."

Orison Orchards

Educators note the program's clear sweet spot for different age groups:

"At too low of a level (arithmetic and pre-algebra), students are so intimidated by learning mathematical notation that any online learning platform is going to be an additional barrier to learning. ALEKS is more of a hindrance than a help. In the elementary algebra and intermediate algebra levels, ALEKS excels."

Reddit - r/matheducation

Special Needs: Mixed Response for Diverse Learners

ALEKS can be beneficial for some students with learning differences:

"For me, the reason it works so well is that it takes the pressure off of the timed classroom-style math classes. It helps me because I worry less about my speed and more about what I am doing with math."

The Easterner

But others report it can be counterproductive:

One Reddit user identified their child as neurodiverse and shared that ALEKS's style was actually "doing more harm than good" for their child, who would get extremely upset when the system made them redo topics due to small mistakes.

Reddit - r/matheducation

Who Thrives With ALEKS Math?

Well-Suited For:

• Independent, self-motivated learners
• Students who need targeted gap-filling or skills practice
• Families seeking a supplement to other math instruction
• Learners who benefit from immediate feedback and mastery-based progression
• Students who prefer text-based learning over videos

Consider Alternatives If:

• Your child needs visual or video instruction for new concepts
• Your student gets easily discouraged or has test anxiety
• You're seeking a complete curriculum with thorough teaching components
• Your child needs a more engaging, game-like interface
• You have a very young learner (below grade 3)

Our Bottom Line

ALEKS Math excels as an adaptive practice and assessment tool that provides targeted, personalized math learning paths. While it's highly effective for reinforcing concepts and filling knowledge gaps, many families find it works best as a supplement rather than a standalone curriculum, especially for visual learners or those needing more initial instruction. The program's strength is its ability to identify precisely what a student knows and doesn't know, though the assessment method can frustrate some learners. For the right student—particularly self-motivated, independent learners—ALEKS can be a powerful tool for mastering mathematics at an individualized pace.