Improving Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills: The Roles of Reasoning, Connections, Communication, and Students� Self-Efficacy

This study investigates the direct and indirect effects of mathematical reasoning, mathematical connections, mathematical communication, and self-efficacy on students� mathematical problem-solving abilities. Mathematical problem-solving ability refers to the capacity to identify, analyze, and resolve mathematical problems using cognitive skills, procedural knowledge, and prior learning experiences. The research employed a quantitative method with an ex-post facto design. The population comprised all Grade X students from senior high schools (SMA) and Islamic senior high schools (MA) in Maros Baru District, Maros Regency. A total of 119 Grade X students were selected as the sample. Data were collected using tests and questionnaires. The tests measured students� mathematical problem-solving abilities, reasoning, connections, and communication skills, while the questionnaires assessed their self-efficacy. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the data characteristics, and path analysis was conducted to examine the direct and indirect relationships among the variables. The findings indicate that mathematical reasoning, connections, communication, and self-efficacy significantly influence students� mathematical problem-solving abilities directly. In addition, mathematical reasoning, connections, and communication also exert indirect effects on problem-solving abilities through the mediation of self-efficacy.