Mathematics is the abstract science of number, quantity, and space, which can be studied on its own or applied to other fields like physics and engineering. Math is important because it is used in everyday life to solve real-world problems, and having stronger math skills opens up more opportunities. Elementary math covers topics like patterns, counting, and basic operations. Middle school math expands on these concepts and introduces pre-algebra topics, geometry, fractions, and more. High school math delves deeper into algebra, geometry, trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus, and other advanced topics.