Best Way to Learn Calculus on My Own?

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Learning calculus independently can be challenging, especially with limited free time. A disciplined approach is essential, ideally involving group study or formal courses, which typically require around three hours of contact time weekly, plus additional time for practice. Most learners can achieve proficiency at a first-year university level within six months with consistent effort. While self-study is possible, it is often more effective to engage with others for feedback and deeper understanding. Resources like Paul's Notes and online college courses can be beneficial, but it's crucial to choose materials that align with one's learning style. Additionally, calculus is often taught alongside linear algebra, so understanding the purpose behind learning calculus is important. Overall, while self-teaching is feasible, collaborative learning is generally recommended for better comprehension and retention.
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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.
 
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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.
 
Last edited:
Simon Bridge said:
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).
 
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.
 
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