If you’re an aspiring college student and preparing for your first year of higher education, you may be stressing over a few courses. For many students, those courses are mathematics.
The idea of taking a college-level math course – especially if you struggled with math in high school – can be daunting. You may be wondering what math courses are required in college, how to get better at math, and what tips you may need to ensure you survive college math.
Whether you’re thinking about your gen ed math requirements or considering a math-heavy major, here are some tips for how to study math effectively to set yourself up to succeed.
Types of Math Courses
No matter your major, you’ll probably be required to take some entry-level math courses in college. If you plan on majoring in something that requires more advanced math classes, these entry-level courses are a stepping stone to more challenging concepts.
Though the specific courses can vary from school to school, here are the general types of math courses at the college level:
- Algebra I: Algebra is a branch of mathematics that studies algebraic equations. Though many students take algebra in high school, college algebra is more advanced.
- Algebra II: Algebra II expands on the concepts from Algebra I and introduces more complex topics to prepare for high-level courses.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometry is a branch of math that deals with the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles.
- Geometry: Geometry is a branch of math that deals with the properties of space, such as the distance, shape, and size of figures.
- Precalculus: Precalculus encompasses the courses that prepare for the study of calculus, such as algebra and geometry.
- Calculus: Calculus is a branch of math that deals with the rates of change and introduces abstract thought necessary for higher-level math and science courses.
More advanced math courses, such as combinatorics and topology, are reserved for math and some tech-focused majors. However, some majors will require more math courses as gen eds to prepare you for degree-specific courses, such as the hard sciences, accounting, and data science.
What Is the Easiest Math Course in College?
Generally, algebra is the easiest course for students with a weak background in math. It covers some of the same concepts that are initially learned in high school, then expands on them, so it’s often easier for students to succeed in algebra.
If you need a refresher on math, a course like Introduction to College Mathematics offers basic fundamental math and algebra with real-world scenarios to build your math confidence and transition into other college-level math courses.
What Is the Hardest Math Course in College?
Math 55 at Harvard University is famously known as “the hardest math course.” Otherwise known as honors advanced calculus, Math 55 is designed to expedite undergraduate math learning by compressing four semesters of work into two semesters.
However, Math 55 isn’t offered everywhere. Overall, Calculus 3 is one of the most challenging types of math and requires a lot of work and critical thinking, but it can vary by student.
Tips to Excel in Math Courses
If you’re wondering, “how can I get better at math” or “how to survive college math courses,” here are some valuable math study tips for college math courses:
Show Up for Class
Missing math courses, even just one, can leave you behind and struggling to catch up. All courses build on previous course concepts, but math especially, and you need to attend your classes and do the reading to stay on pace.
Make Time for Practice
Math requires not only doing the homework but spending time thinking about the material and practicing. The more you put into practice, the more comfortable you may become with the coursework. Practice problems over and over until you’ve mastered solving them and getting the correct answer.
Space Out Your Math Courses
Trying to take too many math courses at once – especially if you struggle with math concepts or have anxiety around math – could hurt your efforts. Speak with your advisor and space out your required math courses to lighten your workload and ensure that you’re taking them in the proper order.
Ask for Help
It’s easy to fall behind in math. If you don’t understand something, ask your professor for help as soon as possible. This ensures that you can work through the concepts and gain a complete understanding before moving onto the next module.
Consider Study Groups
Study groups can be especially valuable for math courses. Even if you’re an independent learner, working with others can help you master the concepts. You’ll not only learn from your peers who are more confident with the material, but you can deepen your understanding by helping others.
Choose the Right Study Environment
You need to think deeply to learn math. If you’re surrounded by noise and distractions, it can break your concentration and make it more difficult to work out problems. Make sure you have a good study environment before your class begins.
Rely on Summary Sheets
Note-taking and summary sheets are your best friend with math. Use sheets to list theorems, properties and formulas, important terms, and example problems. Review your lists regularly to stay sharp with older concepts.
Consider Online College Math Courses on Self-Paced Platforms
If you’re nervous about math courses, self-paced online math courses for college credit can be just what you need. You can work through the course assignments at a pace that’s comfortable and practice until you get the concepts down.
Another benefit of self-paced online courses is that you have the flexibility to complete reading and assignments when you’re at your best. It’s important to have a sharp mind when you tackle math problems, so having the option to do the work when you feel the most focused and productive can be one of the most valuable math hacks.
Math Study Platforms
Wondering how to get better at math for adults? Fortunately, math education has become more accessible than ever with digital learning platforms. You can learn on your own in the comfort of your own home, whether you’re preparing for college or supplementing your learning.
Here are some excellent math study platforms to try:
- Khan Academy: This platform offers free educational content with an extensive math curriculum, interactive exercises, and video lessons.
- Brilliant: This platform develops problem-solving skills using basic math curriculum and real-world scenarios that put abstract concepts into approachable context with puzzles, quizzes, and challenges.
- Mathway: This platform offers a user-friendly interface with math problems and step-by-step solutions and explanations.
- Wiingy: This platform is among the best because it offers one-on-one tutoring sessions, interactive learning tools, and flexible scheduling.
Ready for College Math Courses?
If you’re stressing your college-level math courses, Sophia offers self-paced online math courses that are ACE recommended for college credit. Try out the courses up until the first challenge with a free trial today!
