Does some mathematical work as told and gets a shaping tool (4)
I believe the answer is:
adze
'shaping tool' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for adze that I've seen before include "Woodworker's tool" , "Timber-dressing tool" , "Cutting tool with arched blade" , "Edge tool used to cut and shape wood" , "Timber-shaping tool" .)