Best Way to Learn Calculus on My Own?

[mrnike992]

Trying to learn calculus on my own. No, I do not have a lot of free time. Yes, I am probably the first person in the universe to *want* to learn calculus, especially on my own. Any good books/websites? Thanks.

 

[Simon Bridge]

The best way to learn calculus on your own is to free up some time and join a group.
i.e. the best way is to not do it on your own, with limited free time.

To make good headway, you want a disciplined approach with someone to check your work. You'll want at least 1 hour each week ... formal courses usually have 3 contact hours a week and another two non-contact working on problem solving.

At that rate, it takes most people about a third to half a year to get proficient at 1st-year University level.

Still, you can start out by yourself. Since you are keen and sound inspired you should be able to cover the basics quite fast.

What level of education are you starting at?
What level are you aiming at?

You'll need some notes:
Paul's Notes are generally helpful with the ideas, there are also online college courses that are very good ... but you also need exercises.

Math is Fun pages try to be less serious about the whole thing. BUt if you are dedicated and rally don't have a lot of time, you can try one of the crash courses people offer.

Note: calculus is normally taught alongside linear algebra.
You need to decide what you want to learn for and how serious you are.

The courses online vary a lot so you will need to shop around to match the teachng style to your learning style.

 

[Exoplanet]

The best way to learn calculus on your own is to free up some time and join a group.

Out of curiosity, do you believe it is always better to learn math in a group, or do you think you can teach yourself the subject? I'm curious because I am currently attempting to teach myself algebra and trigonometry (and eventually calculus).

 

[Simon Bridge]

It is possible to teach yourself a subject - but if you do not have the outside input, it is much harder.
It is always best to learn in groups - the experience of explaining stuff to other people is how you gain understanding in a subject.

 

[Matrix0]

Learning any subject on your own can be a challenging but rewarding experience. In order to successfully learn calculus on your own, it is important to have a strong foundation in algebra and trigonometry. If you feel confident in these subjects, then there are several resources that can help you in your journey to learning calculus.

Firstly, textbooks such as "Calculus: Early Transcendentals" by James Stewart or "Calculus: Concepts and Contexts" by James Stewart are highly recommended for self-study. These textbooks provide clear explanations and examples, as well as practice problems with solutions.

In addition to textbooks, there are many online resources that can supplement your learning. Websites such as Khan Academy, Coursera, and MIT OpenCourseWare offer free online courses and lectures on calculus. These resources can provide a structured learning experience and allow you to practice your skills through quizzes and assignments.

Another helpful tool for learning calculus on your own is a study group or online forum where you can discuss and solve problems with other learners. This can provide a sense of community and support as you navigate through the subject.

Lastly, it is important to allocate dedicated and consistent study time in your schedule. Even if you do not have a lot of free time, setting aside a specific time each day or week to focus on learning calculus will help you stay on track and make progress.

In summary, learning calculus on your own is definitely possible with the right resources and dedication. It may be a challenging journey, but with determination and perseverance, you can successfully grasp the concepts and excel in the subject. Good luck!