What's a quick way to brush up on math and physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around strategies for refreshing knowledge in math and physics after a significant time away from the subjects. Participants share resources, tools, and personal experiences related to online programs, textbooks, and calculators suitable for study.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests Khan Academy as a resource for brushing up on math and physics, while others criticize it for being superficial and not suitable as a primary learning source.
  • Another participant recommends the "Forgotten" series of books as a more effective alternative, although they note that these are not free.
  • Some participants express a preference for textbooks, with one specifically mentioning "Basic Mathematics" by Serge Lang as a good option for refreshing knowledge.
  • There is a discussion about the utility of graphing calculators, with one participant questioning the necessity of a physical calculator if a computer is accessible, while another emphasizes the importance of having one for problem sets away from a computer.
  • Participants discuss the calculator policies of schools, noting that some may restrict the use of certain models like the TI-89 in favor of the TI-83/84.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the effectiveness of Khan Academy, with some finding it useful for practice while others deem it inadequate for deeper learning. The discussion regarding the choice of graphing calculators also reveals varying preferences and considerations based on school policies.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the cost of textbooks and calculators, indicating financial considerations in their choices. The discussion does not resolve the debate over the best resources or tools for brushing up on math and physics.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals looking to refresh their knowledge in math and physics, particularly those returning to these subjects after a long break or preparing for further studies in engineering.

Bigheadrhino
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Math and physics were my favorite subjects in high school, and I did quite well, getting 5 on both my Calculus and Physics AP exams. But that was over ten years ago.. any quick way to brush up? Any good free online programs or games?

Thanks!
 
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Bigheadrhino said:
Math and physics were my favorite subjects in high school, and I did quite well, getting 5 on both my Calculus and Physics AP exams. But that was over ten years ago.. any quick way to brush up? Any good free online programs or games?

Thanks!

Not free, but inexpensive (especially used or checked out of your library) -- the "Forgotten XXXX" series of books:

http://search.store.yahoo.net/barronseduc/cgi-bin/nsearch?catalog=barronseduc&query=forgotten

.
 
Khan Academy is lame. It's extremely superficial.
 
bcrowell said:
Khan Academy is lame. It's extremely superficial.

I agree. While Khan academy can be excellent as an extra source of information, it should never be used as a primary source.

I'm afraid you will have to get a textbook and work through it. I like "Basic Mathematics" by Serge Lang and it's an excellent textbook to refresh your knowledge.
 
I agree Khan Academy isn't any good if you want to learn something new, but it's been great in terms of easy access to practice problems and reviewing stuff I haven't touched in ten years. And now that I've used it to brush up, I find it easier to understand the textbooks.
 
Also it doesn't cost $100 (New Zealand Dollars) second hand like Serge Lang's book :-\ although I'd love to get my hands on a copy.
 
Thanks for all the advice. Forgotten Algebra and Forgotten Calculus just arrived today. Looks promising. What kind of Graphing Calculator should I get?
 
Bigheadrhino said:
Thanks for all the advice. Forgotten Algebra and Forgotten Calculus just arrived today. Looks promising. What kind of Graphing Calculator should I get?
If you have consistent access to a computer, you probably don't need one.

Check out http://www.wolframalpha.com/ !
 
  • #10
Thanks, I would like the option of doing these problem sets away from the computer as well though. I want to pursue a Mechanical Engineering degree so... TI-89?
 
  • #11
Bigheadrhino said:
Thanks, I would like the option of doing these problem sets away from the computer as well though. I want to pursue a Mechanical Engineering degree so... TI-89?
That really depends on the calculator policy of the school you enroll in. I know many won't let you use the TI-89. TI-83/84 is usually all they allow. I have both. If you get the TI-89 for brush-up and review, be aware that menus, input, and operations are different enough that the TI-83/84 can be unfamiliar.
 

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