Courses Taking Multivariable calc after AP calc AB

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a college freshman majoring in astrophysics who was placed into multivariable calculus after taking AP Calculus AB. Despite achieving an A in the course and anticipating a good score on the AP test, there are concerns about readiness for multivariable calculus without having completed Calculus 2. Participants in the discussion emphasize the importance of understanding the calculus sequence and suggest reviewing a Calculus II syllabus to identify any knowledge gaps. Some advise starting with Calculus II instead of jumping into multivariable calculus, citing experiences where students felt unprepared for higher-level courses after only taking AP Calculus AB. It is recommended to consult with the math department for insights on placement accuracy and personal readiness based on individual math backgrounds.
GiantSheeps
Messages
83
Reaction score
7
I am going to be a freshman in college and I intend to major in astrophysics. This past year I took AP calculus AB, and I got an A and I believe I did well on the AP test (results haven't come back yet though). This morning I took my school's math placement test, and I was placed into multivariable calculus (Math 221). I had expected to place into calculus 2 (Math 122). Do you think I am prepared for multivariable calculus without having first taken calc BC (or college calc 2)? Any advice/guidance would be greatly appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Re do Calculus 1 at university. I have noticed that students who have taken AP calculus do not know nothing of substance in calculus.
 
  • Like
Likes symbolipoint and Tone L
I have to disagree with @MidgetDwarf. The placement test is presumably written by professors who know what's taught in the calculus sequence and so it should be accurate. To fill in whatever gaps you might have, try getting ahold of a calc II syllabus and learning the topics you don't already know.

If you're feeling particularly nervous, maybe start off in calc II. But I don't see any reason to take a class you already know the contents of.
 
  • Like
Likes symbolipoint
I would start with Calc 2 personally. Taking AP calculus AB only in no way makes you ready for multivariable. You will be in over your head. I took AP calc AB/BC and then skipped right into multivariable calculus my first semester in college. It is one of those decisions looking back that I wonder if I should have done differently. I didn't really appreciate all multivariable had to offer when I took it because I think I took it a little prematurely. Granted I turned out fine in the end. It's still something I consider from my undergrad days.
 
  • Like
Likes MidgetDwarf and symbolipoint
I'd talk with someone in your math department who knows more about the details of their placement test and process.

From an overall review of your math records and placement results they can tell you if you are barely ready for their Calc 3 or very well prepared.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes symbolipoint and Infrared
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I'm going to make this one quick since I have little time. Background: Throughout my life I have always done good in Math. I almost always received 90%+, and received easily upwards of 95% when I took normal-level HS Math courses. When I took Grade 9 "De-Streamed" Math (All students must take "De-Streamed" in Canada), I initially had 98% until I got very sick and my mark had dropped to 95%. The Physics teachers and Math teachers talked about me as if I were some sort of genius. Then, an...

Similar threads

Replies
33
Views
2K
Replies
22
Views
6K
Replies
32
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
4K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
4K
Back
Top