I’m new in this forum, but maybe it can help.
This is my first semester at college and I’m really worried I’m going to mess it up.
Is there anybody studying for the calculus exam? I’m on it…
I’m stressed out completely! Limits, continuity, integrals…I just don’t get it!! Maybe we could organize a study group and help each other…share material, exercises, questions…
If there is someone who is desperate like me, contact me in private…
Please, don’t let me down…
@lisa2016 having tutored calculus before, the best way IMO is to get a good idea of what each of the derivative and integral operators really represent (i.e. derivative of a differentiable function as an instantaneous rate of change, and that it can be computed as the limit of a difference quotient) and know how to use them to solve various problems (finding maxima/minima, related rates, finding total distance traveled, etc.).
Once you have this general idea, you don’t need to waste time re-deriving everything (you could if you wish…). For example, if you remember that d/dx (cos x) = -sin x, you don’t have to re-compute the limit every time.
It takes some practice to compute derivatives or integrals, or solve these various types of problems, so you will want to solve lots of problems as practice (perhaps solve extra problems in the textbook).
Seek out help. Many colleges have math centers where you can go for help – see if that is an option where you are. Also you can try the professor during office hours. Or even ask a friend who is good in calculus to go over things with your. Another option might be going to Khan Academy (free) online to review those topics.
Forming a study group in your college is more realistic. Everyone knows what are covered in class and the expectation of the professor. You should also go to the TA and professor offices.
So are attending the professor’s or TA’s office hours, but I suggest doing a bit of preparation if you do so. I am currently TA’ing a CS course and would much rather see questions like, “Could you explain xxx part in the proof of why L’Hôpital’s rule is true?” instead of, “I don’t understand limits at all.” So I suggest reviewing as much as you can first, then preparing some questions you could ask during office hour.