It's a terrible feeling. You're a few chapters behind in algebra, and now nothing makes sense. Here's how to catch up.

First, you must accept that you cannot just 'jump back in.' You have to go back to where you first got lost.

Step 1: The Triage. Talk to your teacher. Be honest. Say 'I'm lost, and I think I got lost during the chapter on factoring.' Ask for their advice.

Step 2: The Foundation. You MUST go back and master that topic where you fell off. Use Khan Academy or YouTube videos. This is your top priority.

Step 3: The Current Class. Do not ignore your current homework. Do your best, even if you don't understand it all. Turn in something.

This shows the teacher you are still trying. Ask for extensions if you need to.

Step 4: The Weekend Offensive. Your weekends are now your catch-up time. You need to put in extra hours to close the gap.

Focus on one past concept at a time. Watch the videos, then do the practice problems until it clicks.

It will likely take a few weeks of dedicated, extra work to get caught up.

It's a difficult climb, but it is far better than feeling lost and hopeless for the rest of the semester. You can do this.