What math skills should I re-learn to improve my understanding of physics?

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At 27, an individual has developed a strong interest in physics and is seeking to relearn GCSE Maths and Physics to support this passion. They are exploring self-study options, particularly through resources like Khan Academy, but find some advanced texts, such as Susskind's "Theoretical Minimum," challenging. Recommendations include focusing on essential math skills that underpin physics concepts and utilizing mastery challenges on Khan Academy to reinforce learning effectively. It's advised to prioritize reading textbooks for a deeper understanding rather than relying solely on online videos. Additionally, enrolling in accredited courses or community college programs for remedial classes is suggested as a way to build foundational knowledge before pursuing further studies in physics.
Scottage1988
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Hi Guys,

So I'm 27 and I haven't touched GCSE Maths or Physics for a ,long while and if I'm honest didn't pay that much attention during school in these subjects either.

Recently, through the power of age, I've developed an interest in physics and now I am obsessed with learning as much as I can about this wonderful subject and the accompanying maths skills.

I've picked up a few books such as Susskind's Theoretical minimum but I feel its still pitched at a level I'm not at yet.

What I am wondering is what maths skills should I be re-learning in order to help me develop my physics knowledge?

I'm looking at self study and will be using resources such as Khan academy but any other resources you could suggest would be great.

thanks

Scott
 
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Yes keep working on KA. You methodology should be to do mastery challenges as soon as they become available. KA is built around the "Curve of Forgetting" and will reinforce subjects at an optimal interval.

But note that KA should be an exercise supplement to your primary source, which will be books. I personally recommend you start with this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0992001005/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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Don't depend on online videos, they're a crutch that you won't have later on. It's better to get used to reading textbooks and figuring things out on your own.

I don't know how the UK works, if you have what's the equivalent to US community colleges where you can be placed and offered remedial classes. You should look at enrolling in some type of accredited university, take the remedial courses, and then continue on with your planned degree.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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