Measuring mathematics self-efficacy. The most commonly used scale for measuring
mathematics self-efficacy is the Mathematics Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES) (Betz & Hackett,
1983). This scale was originally developed to explore gender differences in mathematics selfefficacy
and how these differences affect students’ career choices. After reviewing previous
research on mathematics anxiety and mathematics self-efficacy, Betz and Hackett identified
three main domains involved with studying mathematics self-efficacy: solving mathematics
problems, using mathematics in everyday tasks, and obtaining good grades in mathematics
courses. The MSES asks participants to rate their confidence on a scale from 0 to 9 in their
ability to perform 18 mathematics tasks, to correctly solve 18 mathematics problems, and to get a
B or better in 16 mathematics-related college courses.