Mastering Self-Studying: Tips for Understanding Algebra Without Lectures

  • Thread starter Thread starter schw
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Self-studying
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the challenges of self-studying algebra without lectures, particularly from the perspective of a college student who has previously found success in other math subjects like calculus and linear algebra. Participants explore methods to improve understanding and efficiency in learning algebraic concepts through self-directed study.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in understanding algebra from a textbook without the support of lectures, noting that it takes significantly more time compared to other math subjects.
  • Another participant asks for the specific book being used to better identify the challenges faced.
  • A different participant suggests that elementary linear algebra is relatively easy to read, implying that the difficulty may vary by topic.
  • One participant recommends using videos, particularly short ones, as a potentially more effective method for learning specific algebraic concepts, such as cosets, compared to reading.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the best method for self-studying algebra, with differing opinions on the effectiveness of textbooks versus video resources and varying perceptions of the difficulty of algebraic material.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify which specific algebra topics are causing difficulties, nor does it address the assumptions underlying the effectiveness of different study methods.

Who May Find This Useful

Students engaged in self-study of algebra, particularly those transitioning from other mathematical subjects, may find the insights shared in this discussion relevant.

schw
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
Hello,
I've been studying physics in college for 1 year now and so far I haven't had much difficulties on math subjects (such as calculus and linear algebra). This semester I decided to study some of algebra and I've been having some difficulties reading the book and understanding all by my self. It takes me way too much time compared to other subjects (such as calculus). I related that problem with the fact that I have no lectures at all on the theory, so it's harder just reading and geting it. I'd like to know if there is a helping metod for undertanding of a book.

Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Which book are you reading? That would help pinpoint your difficulties.
 
I find videos can help a lot, especially the short ones that cover just what you want to know. For example, suppose you are learning about cosets in algebra, watching videos is probably a lot better than reading about them.
 

Similar threads

Is this a good self-study program?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
Courses Linear Algebra Self-Study: Textbook & Quantum Mechanics
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
Studying How many exercises should I do after each math lecture? (Calc 1/2)
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K
What are your thoughts on self-studying Goldstein?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Studying How to self-study physics past High School Level?
  • · Replies 102 ·
4
Replies
102
Views
9K
Other How to self study mathematics for the sake of the subject?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Courses Algebra or Calculus based physics to start with?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Studying How Can I Extend My Study Hours Beyond Four Per Day?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Studying When to check the solutions during self-study?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
Studying Need Help with Study Approach
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K