The discussion revolves around finding the limit of the cotangent function as x approaches pi from the left side. Participants are exploring hints and the utility of the graph of the function in determining the limit, while also engaging in a broader conversation about learning approaches and expectations in calculus.
Participants do not reach a consensus on the clarity of the limit or the appropriateness of the advice given. There are competing views on the necessity of prior knowledge and the effectiveness of different learning strategies.
There are unresolved tensions regarding the expectations of knowledge in calculus and the varying levels of understanding among participants. The discussion reflects differing opinions on the role of self-study and the interpretation of what constitutes an "obvious" answer.
Of course it does.nycmathdad said:Find the limit of cot (x) as x tends to pi from the left side.
Seeking a hint or two. Does the graph of the given function help in terms of finding the limit?
nycmathdad said:Find the limit of cot (x) as x tends to pi from the left side.
Seeking a hint or two. Does the graph of the given function help in terms of finding the limit?
Prove It said:Yes, from looking at the graph, the answer should be obvious...
nycmathdad said:Obvious to you but not to others learning this for the first time.
Prove It said:It is obvious for anyone who can look at a graph. Are you seriously saying you can't look at the graph and see what happens near $x = \pi$?
There you go again with your paranoia.nycmathdad said:Yes, I probably can but think about the arrogance in your reply. Come down to Earth a little bit. I am not a classroom student.
Translation: I like mentioning that "My student days ended in 1993." as an argument opener to shut members into giving me a break. I like to argue needlessly a lot.nycmathdad said:My student days ended in 1993. Learning on my own is fun but definitely not easy, especially when someone is constantly criticizing every thread.
Prove It said:I am not meaning to sound arrogant, you don't seem to understand what I mean. When I say something is obvious, it's only because it is obvious. Have you actually had a look at the graph?
Realise that people come here to help voluntarily, the least you could do is to take our advice.
Don't you think that "obvious" is "in the eye of the beholder"? What is obvious to one person might be incomprehensible to another.Prove It said:I am not meaning to sound arrogant, you don't seem to understand what I mean. When I say something is obvious, it's only because it is obvious. Have you actually had a look at the graph?
Realise that people come here to help voluntarily, the least you could do is to take our advice.
Country Boy said:Don't you think that "obvious" is "in the eye of the beholder"? What is obvious to one person might be incomprehensible to another.
He's very good at that.Prove It said:There is a certain level of prerequisite knowledge, skill and understanding that is expected of a person who is studying calculus. What I said is obvious IS obvious to anyone who has that prerequisite knowledge, skill and understanding. If it's not, then the poster needs to work harder to reach that level, rather than making excuses.
So just a kid!jonah said:Beer soaked recall follows.
He's very good at that.
You may remember him 6 years ago as nycmath when he was just allegedly 50 at the time.
Prove It said:There is a certain level of prerequisite knowledge, skill and understanding that is expected of a person who is studying calculus. What I said is obvious IS obvious to anyone who has that prerequisite knowledge, skill and understanding. If it's not, then the poster needs to work harder to reach that level, rather than making excuses.
If you want sympathy, I suggest that you start meeting your helpers halfway by simply reaching your book. Is reading your book really that hard? Or do you have more excuses?nycmathdad said:I am learning Calculus on my own. No sympathy in your arena, I see.