The best way to study calculus

Many students dread calculus because they think it’s a subject that is hard to learn and understand. In reality, the main struggles of most students are not with calculus itself, but their lack of understanding with foundational trigonometry and algebra concepts that are commonly applied to calculus.

This is the main reason why it is essential to review past math classes and notes to truly understand the foundational maths concepts that you’re required to know before you take on calculus.

In this article, we’re going to simplify calculus. Get ready to discuss key concepts from trigonometry and algebra, as well as definitions and symbols you must understand.

• Know the definitions

Knowing the different terms and their definitions is essential in calculus since you will be learning things called derivatives, limits, integrals, and other terms that have a conceptual definition. Therefore, you need to understand that one problem can be phrased in various ways. Knowing definitions is essential to your correct interpretation of problems and subsequently, your reasoning and understanding.

• Taking one step at a time

Calculus concepts are taught in a very specific order. We start with limits, derivatives, integrals, series, higher dimensions, and progress to more advanced concepts. The reason for this is that all concepts are grouped together like a ladder, so everything you learn will be based on a previous topic.

It’s recommended that you don’t breeze on a particular topic like limits since it’s the foundation of calculus and everything else will depend on it. You will need to understand the conceptual meaning behind a limit to fully understand next concept.

• Know the symbols

Calculus is full of arrows, S’s, and Greek letters- it’s like you’re reading a foreign language! That is why you’ll need to know all the symbols to properly solve a problem. If you can’t determine their meanings, then will not understand what the problems are asking. No Matter how naturally gifted you are in maths, it s impossible to work through problems if you do not know the symbols or terminology used.
After learning the symbols, you should also know when to use them. Therefore, it’s essential to know all the small details, or you’ll end up getting more confused.

• Start Thinking in 3D

Calculus is considered a journey into the world of three dimensions, so you’ll need to expand everything, and visualising will be your key to solve problems. Although you don’t need to be an artist to succeed, you are required to draw various 3D figures.

• Learn the rules

Like in any other subject in school, mathematics is bounded by rules and you need to follow them to be successful in this subject. One good example is the chain rule, product rule, the quotient rule, u-substitution, and integration by parts. If you don’t know these rules, then you will be limited in your ability to solve problems in calculus.

Overall, practice is the key to your success so solve a lot of problems everyday or as much as you can. Don’t give up, it will become easier once you get the hang of it. Most importantly, do all your homework following what your teacher has covered before the following lesson commences. If you need a tutor to help with your understanding and confidence, find out about their rates.