I am going to be taking these all next year (physics obviously second semester since calc 1 is a pre-req) and I need some advice. What should I study to help me get an A in these classes? I am not the best math student, and new to science, but I have the time to apply myself.So again, what should I do this summer to prepare for calc 1.
P.S. I know someone will ask so, yes, I have taken pre-cal algebra and trig.
Identify resources to use so you don’t fall behind during the classes (Khan Academy, Paul’s Math Notes, PatrickJMT). There is a wealth of information out there, including worked examples, so even if your professor isn’t the best you still have everything you need to do well.
Use these placement exams to get an idea of which algebra, geometry, and trigonometry topics you may need to review before taking calculus:
http://math.tntech.edu/e-math/placement/
https://math.berkeley.edu/courses/choosing/placement-exam
Talk to students who have taken these classes at your school before. Those classes are very broad and different professors tend to emphasize different things.
I would recommend what everyone on here have said. Also, I would recommend ratemyprofessor.com to get a glance at the professor’s style. Read the bad reviews as well to see if the bad reviews are due to the professor actually being sucky and not from lazy students who are mad that they got a bad grade.
Some schools require calculus 1 before taking physics. Maybe take it in the spring. If not, prepare to be in the library studying.
Take advantage of any study groups or other structured study support systems at your school beyond going to lectures/discussions religiously. Find out about them and sign up right out of the gate - don’t wait until you see if you need them. It’s easier to drop out of them then to be struggling a month into the year and then get into them.