Quick calculus for introductory physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the resources and strategies for a high school student preparing for AP Physics C, particularly focusing on the calculus concepts necessary for understanding the course material. The scope includes recommendations for study guides that are not traditional textbooks and considerations of time constraints in learning calculus alongside physics.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks quick study guides to gain a working knowledge of differential and integral calculus for AP Physics C, questioning the effectiveness of resources like Schaum's or Dummies.
  • Another participant argues that learning calculus effectively requires a textbook and emphasizes the importance of practice problems in both math and physics to achieve understanding.
  • A different participant clarifies that their intention is not to learn calculus thoroughly but to acquire basic knowledge quickly to focus on physics concepts.
  • One participant suggests obtaining an AP review book and taking practice tests as a way to prepare efficiently, inquiring about whether the student is taking AP Mechanics, Electricity, or both.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity and effectiveness of study guides versus textbooks, with no consensus on the best approach to quickly learn calculus for AP Physics C.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge time constraints and the subjective nature of learning preferences, which may affect the choice of resources. There is also an implied assumption that a basic understanding of calculus is sufficient for engaging with physics concepts.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students preparing for AP Physics C, educators seeking resource recommendations, and individuals interested in efficient study strategies for calculus in the context of physics.

omz222
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I'm a high school student planning to self-studying for AP Physics C (introductory calculus-based physics), but so far I've only learned basic differential calculus. What kinds of introductory study guides (read: not textbooks) could quickly give me a working knowledge of the differential and integral calculus used in AP Physics C? Would Schaum's or Dummies work?
 
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work? It's entirely subjective. You should know by now which ways you'll study best. Personally, I can't think of how it would even be possible to learn calculus or solve physics problems without a textbook. Maths is learned through practice and physics is understood through problems - as far as I'm aware that's the easiest way to do it. To really understand calculus and have a 'working knowledge' you'll need to do plenty of problems. Knowing how integration works isn't the same as being able to use it.

and sorry, to return to the original point of your thread - I've seen Schaum's and can't say I've been too impressed by any of those books so I'm afraid I'm out of suggestions.
 
I do have a textbook, but my primary problem is time - so I don't intend the guides as a way to "learn" calculus thoroughly, but as a way to give me a basic knowledge of the math concepts that drive physics, so that I can get onto the physics right away.
 
are you taking the ap mechanics or electricity or both?

Get an AP review book and take the practice tests if your in a hurry.
 

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