MyLab Math “Similar Question” Button: How It Works & Common Issues
The “Similar Question” button generates a fresh version of the same problem type—usually with new numbers—so you can
practice again without hunting for another problem. It’s great for reinforcing a method, but students often run into availability limits
and confusion about scoring. This guide explains how it works, where it appears, and how to use it effectively.
MyLab Math hub. If you’re overloaded and need course support, see
Do MyMathLab for Me.
Quick Links
How the “Similar Question” Button Works
- After an attempt: When you miss (or sometimes complete) a problem, the button becomes available.
- Generates a new version: You get the same concept with different numbers or parameters.
- Fresh scoring: The new attempt is graded independently (no partial credit carry-over).
- Repeatable (if enabled): You can often try multiple similar questions, subject to your instructor’s settings.
Key idea: “Similar Question” targets concept mastery—randomization prevents memorizing a single solution pattern.
Where You’ll See It
- Homework sets: Most common location—especially for multi-step questions.
- Practice/Study Plan: Sometimes present to reinforce topics flagged by diagnostics.
- Quizzes/Exams: Often disabled; availability is instructor-controlled.
If you don’t see the button, your instructor may have turned it off, limited attempts, or excluded it for certain question types.
Pros of Using “Similar Question”
- Immediate practice: Fix mistakes on a fresh version without leaving the assignment.
- Concept reinforcement: New numbers = same method—great for mastery.
- Less guesswork: Encourages method over memorized answers.
Limitations & Frustrations
- Attempt caps: The button may disappear after a set number of tries.
- No partial carry-over: Each new problem starts from zero, even if you were close before.
- Perceived difficulty: Randomization can make the next version feel harder (or just different).
- Instructor settings: Availability varies by course, leading to inconsistent experiences.
What Students Say (Reddit Reactions)
Second chance to recover points
“It gives me the option to do a similar question to recover the point.”
Try again (and again) when it’s enabled
“It gives you another chance to get 100% on that question… you can go back… and hit similar question, and try again and again.”
Instructor leniency makes it truly helpful
“My professor is great… unlimited tries and no penalty, so I was able to do a similar question and get points for it :)”
Tips to Use “Similar Question” Effectively
- Write the method, not just numbers: Note the exact steps (e.g., factoring pattern, derivative rule).
- Compare versions: Identify what changed—coefficients, signs, domain—that’s the concept “twist.”
- Fix format errors first: Rounding, units, and notation mistakes will haunt every new version.
- Use before the deadline: Don’t wait until the last attempt; give yourself time for a clean run.
- Pair with walkthroughs: If available, use Help Me Solve This or View an Example to grasp the method, then try “Similar Question.”
Subject-Specific Help
Similar Question works best when you know the method. If your load skews to one subject, start here:
Algebra
Precalculus
Trigonometry
Calculus
Geometry
Quantitative Reasoning
When to Get Extra Help
If you’re stuck in an endless loop of Similar Questions, it may be smarter to focus on high-weight items and get assistance with the rest.
For platform guidance, start at the MyLab Math hub.
For done-for-you support on heavier workloads, see Do MyMathLab for Me.
FAQ: “Similar Question” in MyLab Math
Why don’t I see the Similar Question button?
Does “Similar Question” make the problem easier?
Is it available on quizzes or exams?
Do I keep partial credit from the previous attempt?
How many times can I click it?
Practice Smarter with “Similar Question”
Use the button to reinforce the method, not to hunt for lucky numbers. Combine it with careful formatting and—if available—
walkthrough tools to build confidence before quizzes and exams. When you need broader support, visit the
MyLab Math hub or request help via
Do MyMathLab for Me.