Schools 1st semester grad school class choices

AI Thread Summary
A graduate student is deciding between two courses: Intermediate Analysis 1 and Applied Linear Algebra. They have a background in proofs from Discrete Math but lack exposure to Advanced Calculus, raising concerns about the difficulty of Intermediate Analysis 1. The student recognizes the importance of understanding analysis for their PhD aspirations but feels more confident in Applied Linear Algebra, having excelled in it during undergraduate studies. The course description for Intermediate Analysis 1 includes topics such as the real number system, metric spaces, sequences, continuity, differentiation, Riemann integration, power series, and functions of several variables, suggesting it is akin to advanced calculus. Ultimately, the student decides to enroll in Applied Linear Algebra, believing it to be a more manageable choice given their current knowledge.
Mogarrr
Messages
120
Reaction score
6
Hi there, fellow physics forums members & guests.

I'm starting the 1st semester of grad school, and I'm faced with a tough choice between two different classes. I could take Intermediate Analysis 1 or Applied Linear Algebra.

The only course I've taken involving proofs is Discrete Math, and I had no problem there. However, I am concerned that since I have never been exposed to Advanced Calculus, the Intermediate Analysis 1 course could destroy me.

On the other hand, I would really need to understand this stuff, if I am going to get a PhD. I am working on a Masters degree, and I would like to move on with my life and start working in the real world.

As far as Applied Linear Algebra goes, I'm not worried. I took Linear Algebra as an undergrad and rocked it.

Anybody have any insights to offer? Is Analysis impossibly hard to understand without prior exposure?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What is intermediate analysis 1? Do you have a course description?
 
Jorriss said:
What is intermediate analysis 1? Do you have a course description?

5318. Intermediate Analysis 1 (3). The real number system, introduction to metric spaces, sequences, continuity, differentiation, Riemann integration, power series, functions of several variables, and differential forms.

I think this is advanced calculus.

Also, Intermediate Analysis 2 had the same description, so I don't think all topics would be covered in one semester.
 
Decision made. Taking LA.
 

Thread 'Self Learning Math/Physics'

Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
View full post »

Thread 'What should I do if I found a paper with same result as mine?'

Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...
View full post »

Similar threads

Courses Advanced Math for Computational Material Science Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
Other How to Afford Moving to Another State For Grad School?
Replies
16
Views
2K
Admissions Should I forget about grad school?
Replies
12
Views
2K
Other Physics PhD after working for few years
Replies
12
Views
2K
Admissions Grad School Admissions: Which do I Bother With?
Replies
2
Views
2K
Schools Application to Grad School With a BAD Semester
Replies
2
Views
2K
Courses Navigating Two Math Classes and an Elective Simultaneously
Replies
6
Views
2K
Admissions Feedback for my grad school SOP for theoretical particle physics
Replies
10
Views
2K
Admissions Curious about my grad school prospects
Replies
3
Views
3K
Admissions Need advice for Low GPA / Good Research / HEPth PhD application
Replies
26
Views
5K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top