The development of cognitive skills is a key factor in academic performance, particularly in disciplines that require logical and spatial reasoning, such as mathematics. This study analyzes the evolution of five cognitive skills (general, verbal, numerical, spatial, and perceptual) in first-year students of the bachelor’s degree in mathematics at the University of Panama, using the GATB test administered at the beginning and end of the first semester. The results show significant improvements in general, verbal, spatial, and perceptual skills, while numerical ability, although positively correlated with performance in Differential Calculus, did not exhibit statistically significant progress. Additionally, a strong relationship was identified between spatial perception and performance in Plane Geometry, highlighting its importance in mathematical training. These findings underscore the need to implement educational strategies that strengthen cognitive skills from the early university semesters, with a particular focus on numerical development. It is recommended to adopt didactic approaches that integrate visual and manipulative methods, interactive digital tools, and problem-solving strategies to optimize mathematics learning. This study provides empirical evidence on the impact of cognitive skills on academic success and suggests the need for specific pedagogical interventions to improve retention and performance in fields with a high mathematical component.
