Testing Pass out of Calc 2 by exam or take the full semester of Calc 2 in the summer

[selig5560]

Hi,

I've been debating with myself if I should pass out of calculus 2 by an exam or I should take the full semester. I am currently taking calc 1 this semester. Is there a pro or a con to either of these routes? I also would need to brush up on certain calc 2 topics since I have not taken it in a couple of years (since hs.)

 

[TylerH]

There wouldn't be any harm in trying to test out of it. Just try, and if you don't test out, then take the class.

 

[Angry Citizen]

I'd retake it, especially if you plan to go into a class like differential equations which require a solid knowledge of series and some advanced integration techniques.

 

[TylerH]

I'd retake it, especially if you plan to go into a class like differential equations which require a solid knowledge of series and some advanced integration techniques.

That's a good point.

OP: Now that I think about it, I don't really qualify to answer this. I've only taken calc II and a proof class, so I don't have the perspective to know what you're really going to need from calc II.

 

[Jorriss]

so I don't have the perspective to know what you're really going to need from calc II.

Short answer: All of it.

A lot of the topics covered in an intro calculus sequence may seem random or out of place but you really likely will need everything you learn in calculus at one point or another if you plan on going into engineering, science or possibly math.

 

[micromass]

If you really study it hard and make the exercises again, then you could test out of it without any problem. But don't just 'revise' everything but actually study it again.

It all depends how efficient you are on self-studying.

 

[DrewD]

Take the class unless taking it means you will not be able to take another class. To the best of my knowledge, Calc II classes usually cover a number of topics that are not covered in HS calculus. Most importantly, infinite series including power series expansions and sometimes Fourier series (especially if you are at a Tech School).

I did well in Calc II and now run a study group for the class. I have learned a lot about calculus by doing this. I assure you that you will benefit from taking the class unless it is unreasonable to fit it in your schedule... If that is the case, who cares, its just math!