"Why do we study limits?" "How would I calculate 7π/4 without a calculator?" "There are several trigonometric formulas, how can I memorize them?" These are a few of the frequent questions asked by engineering students who seek the help of the Learning Strategist, a professional who advises students on academic skills. Attempting to memorize formulas and problem solutions without understanding their origin is common among engineering students. Consequently, students often disregard or are unaware of how formulas are derived, and they do not allocate time to find patterns that connect these formulas to the concepts they are learning in class. Investing time to study the origin and assumptions underlying formulas can be rewarding yet this process has a steep learning curve. Once mastered, understanding the derivation of commonly used formulas and mathematical patterns saves students’ energy and time by giving them tools to quickly solve difficult engineering problems. In this paper, we demonstrate the process of problem-solving and pattern finding through a fun activity that can be utilized in lectures or tutorials to create in students an appreciation of the basics. The activity shows the importance of finding and understanding patterns and how to extend these findings into solutions. Through recognition of patterns, students can develop higher order thinking skills and the ability to derive formulas from their skeletal form. The goal of this project is to investigate the impact of instructors including pattern finding activities within their classrooms.