Abstract math (type B) is a very rigorous discipline that underpins the other kind used by engineers (type A). Type A is indeed learned by repetition along with understanding. It is very important to simply do the math to become better at it and understand what you can expect from your calculations.
Type B on the other hand far more about understanding. You will never understand the theory of a mathematical space and how to apply it, by simple repetition. That is a far more theoretical and creative endeavour. You need to learn it and apply it to understand it. I suppose you could call the process of applying it some kind of repetition, but in my opinion the insights comes from applying it to concepts you already know.
A formal learning path is a very good idea, because people with more knowledge know what order you can progress in, in such a way that you actually apply your knowledge in a natural way and build on previous learnings. And it is definitely a huge help that teachers can help you guide your learning when you are stuck.
Type B on the other hand far more about understanding. You will never understand the theory of a mathematical space and how to apply it, by simple repetition. That is a far more theoretical and creative endeavour. You need to learn it and apply it to understand it. I suppose you could call the process of applying it some kind of repetition, but in my opinion the insights comes from applying it to concepts you already know.
A formal learning path is a very good idea, because people with more knowledge know what order you can progress in, in such a way that you actually apply your knowledge in a natural way and build on previous learnings. And it is definitely a huge help that teachers can help you guide your learning when you are stuck.