Linear Algebra or Calculus III: Which Should I Choose?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision between taking Linear Algebra with a highly regarded professor or Calculus III with a less competent instructor. Participants unanimously recommend taking Linear Algebra first, emphasizing its importance in physics and its foundational role in understanding multivariable calculus. They note that while Calculus III is required for both the physics major and math minor, it builds significantly on concepts from Linear Algebra. Ultimately, the consensus is that a strong grasp of Linear Algebra will enhance comprehension in Calculus III and other advanced mathematics courses.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Calculus I and II concepts
  • Familiarity with multivariable calculus principles
  • Basic knowledge of linear transformations and determinants
  • Awareness of the role of Linear Algebra in physics applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Linear Algebra fundamentals, focusing on vector spaces and linear transformations
  • Review multivariable calculus topics, particularly differentiation and integration techniques
  • Explore the applications of Linear Algebra in quantum mechanics and engineering
  • Investigate the syllabus of Calculus III to understand its prerequisites and core topics
USEFUL FOR

Students pursuing physics or mathematics degrees, particularly those weighing course options in higher-level mathematics. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to optimize their understanding of calculus and its applications in physics.

  • #31
At my university, there's two semesters per year.

Calculus I is 100 level
Calculus II is 200 Level, and there is also Differential Equations I at this level
Differential Equations II is at 300 level

hence my confusion.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
Thank you all for the input. I have signed up for Linear Algebra in the fall and plan to take Calculus III in the spring.
 
  • #33
mvantuyl said:
Thank you all for the input. I have signed up for Linear Algebra in the fall and plan to take Calculus III in the spring.

Congrats! That was the best thing to do IMO. Good luck now!
 
  • #34
good. study well now, the course is VERY important..although it might seem boring (it seemed boring to me).
 

Similar threads

Applied Math PhD candidate but I hate group theory
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Is this a good self-study program?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
Should I drop my Calculus III Course? Please HELP
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Courses Choosing courses for mathematics minor to support my physics major
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Courses Computer Science Major: Take Calculus-based Physics or Algebra-based?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
Admissions Nontraditional candidate for Cambridge part III
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Trying to review linear algebra after graduating
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
Studying How Can I Improve My Vector Calculus Skills for Classical Mechanics?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Courses Which math course should I take (as a physics major)?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Courses Should I take Calculus 2 my freshman year of college?
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
7K