Schools What can i do to prepare for college?

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Online preparation for a future degree can be effectively initiated by focusing on math, especially for those unable to attend on-site classes due to work commitments. A strong recommendation is to start with foundational math studies, utilizing resources like ALEKS to refresh skills based on the highest level of math previously completed. For those who haven't engaged with math in years, self-study materials such as high school math books suggested by micromass can be beneficial, allowing learners to rebuild their understanding from the basics. Additionally, "Engineering Mathematics" by John Bird is recommended for its structured approach, covering topics from arithmetic to complex statistics with practical exercises. Many state schools offer distance learning programs that include introductory courses in calculus and physics, which can help in earning credit hours while preparing for a degree.
JMann223
Is there any online prep I can do that will benefit a future degree? At the time attending on site is not a reality for me seeing as I can't stop working. What I'm looking for is something I can do to establish a foundation and hopefully start chipping away at credit hours. I don't like the thought of having an idea of what I would like to go to school in but not working towards it when I possibly could be.
 
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Three things:

(1) Study math
(2) Study math
(3) Study math
 
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Is there any specific book or material you would recommend for someone who hasn't touched math in a few years nor really had to apply it?
 
JMann223 said:
Is there any specific book or material you would recommend for someone who hasn't touched math in a few years nor really had to apply it?
No, since I have no idea where you are in math or what your proficiency was where you were in math, I would have no idea and I can't imagine how you think anyone would, given the zero information that you have provided.
 
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DS2C said:
Have a look at the self [URL='https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/self-study-basic-high-school-mathematics/']study mathematics[/URL] Insights written by micromass. I haven't taken math in years, and don't even know what I've forgotten. So I basically bought every high school math book he mentioned and started at the bottom. I am only on the first two but they are really good and I have a better handle on the subjects now than when I took them in high school.
Thank you! Checked it out and it seems like a good starting point.
 
I'd start with ALEKS to refresh your math. Begin with the highest high school course you completed. Work you way through precalculus.

Lots of state schools have distance learning programs. Few offer all the courses needed for a remote Physics or Engineering degree, but many offer the basic intro Calculus and Physics sequences.
 
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I would recommend Engineering Mathematics by John Bird. There are 3 levels and the books spoon feed you from arithmetic to complex stats. Plenty of exercises to do and are frequently turned to realistic problems. When I got to harder math these books were life savers as you can touch up on any math operations you may have forgotten very quickly.
 
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