Learning Math From Very Basics to Calc and more

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around strategies for self-learning mathematics, chemistry, and physics, particularly for someone preparing to major in chemical engineering. Participants share resources and suggest a progression of topics starting from basic algebra to calculus and beyond.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Christian expresses a need for a structured learning path in math, starting from pre-algebra and progressing through algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.
  • One participant recommends khanacademy.com for refreshing knowledge from algebra to trigonometry but critiques its calculus content, suggesting textbooks and ocw.mit.edu for further study.
  • Another participant endorses the book "Basic Mathematics" by Lang as a comprehensive resource for high-school mathematics, noting its focus on proofs and theory.
  • Christian acknowledges the suggestions and plans to start with Khan Academy, indicating a willingness to reassess progress later.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the usefulness of online resources like Khan Academy and textbooks for learning mathematics, but there is no consensus on the best approach or specific resources for chemistry and physics.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the importance of foundational knowledge and the potential need for a focus on proofs and theory, which may not align with all learning preferences.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for studies in engineering or related fields who seek to strengthen their understanding of mathematics, chemistry, and physics.

ChemE2310
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I am going to major in chemical engineering next year, but I feel like I don't have a great base in math, chemistry, or physics. Sure, I got "good" grades at the time, but I took a year off the subjects and now I feel like I am helpless.

What would be the best way to go about learning this on my own - what progression (specifically for math)?

I would like to start at Algebra and work my way up, maybe even start at a primer of pre-algebra just to make positive that I have a great math base.

For Chem and Physics I need the same guidance.

Recommend a path and resources I could use to get there.

Thank you so much,

Christian
 
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khanacademy.com is a great way to refresh yourself on algebra all the way up to Trigonometry. However I find their Calculus lectures to be a bit lacking. It's best to work any subject after that with a textbook and perhaps using something like ocw.mit.edu as another resource.

Also, don't forget physicsforums.com! Everyone here is more than happy to help you out with any problem you may encounter. PF is THE best resource for learning from my experience.
 
QuarkCharmer said:
khanacademy.com is a great way to refresh yourself on algebra all the way up to Trigonometry. However I find their Calculus lectures to be a bit lacking. It's best to work any subject after that with a textbook and perhaps using something like ocw.mit.edu as another resource.

Also, don't forget physicsforums.com! Everyone here is more than happy to help you out with any problem you may encounter. PF is THE best resource for learning from my experience.

Thanks a bunch!

I'll get started on khan - should take me quite a while to get through to trig.
I'll reassess from there most likely.
 
I highly recommend the book "Basic Mathematics" by Lang. It covers everything you should know about high-school mathematics. If you understand the book, then you're ready for calculus. The focus is a bit on proofs and theory, so this might not be what you want.
 
Thanks for the replies, but bump for more suggestions as well. Still working on a plan
 

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