Examples of hard multivariable calculus exams online?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the challenges of preparing for a rigorous Calculus III course, particularly one that utilizes take-home exams. The instructor's exams are described as exceptionally difficult, with a curve that sets an A at 70%. Participants recommend searching for past exams from prestigious institutions like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard, which often provide Open Courseware resources. Additionally, students are advised to identify the exam style—computational or proof-based—by consulting past students to tailor their preparation effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of multivariable calculus concepts, including vector calculus.
  • Familiarity with take-home exam formats and expectations.
  • Knowledge of Open Courseware resources from universities like MIT and Stanford.
  • Ability to differentiate between computational and proof-based exam styles.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research MIT Open Courseware for Calculus III exam examples.
  • Explore Stanford's past exams to understand proof-based testing formats.
  • Investigate Purdue and Indiana University's online resources for past Calculus III exams.
  • Connect with former students to gather insights on exam styles and preparation strategies.
USEFUL FOR

Students enrolled in advanced calculus courses, particularly those preparing for challenging exams, as well as educators seeking resources for curriculum development in multivariable calculus.

gilbogarbage
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My Calc III teacher this fall gives take home exams because he insists that there isn't enough time to cover all the material in Calc III, so he needs every class hour to teach, thus he gives take-home tests. Knowing people who took his calc III class last fall, and him curving an A to be 70%, I know his exams are hard. He wouldn't give me any examples, and someone said the exams were "PhD worthy, so hard you didn't even know how to start them".

I've been trying to prepare myself for the class this fall by searching for take-home Calc III exams that universities around the world have posted online. So far not good. I was wondering if anyone knows any decent colleges who have posted hard exams? I guess this includes vector calculus too?
 
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Check out some of the MIT questions. How long is your typical exam? If the amount of time is long, then anything is "fair game". If the length of the exam is maybe an hour, then try to limit what he stresses the most in class.
 
The big universities (Stanford, MIT, Harvard) have some variation on Open Courseware, which includes all of the class's resources including tests. Also, your state colleges will most likely post past exams up on their website (I know Purdue and IU do). Find out from past students the exams style: computational or proof-based (I've found that Calc III proof tests were ridiculously hard with Stanford). The tests you search for online should match the style of tests that you want to prepare for.
 

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