<p>So, I'm planning to major in physics. I was wondering what level math will be most useful for me to study further? I can either study for AMC/AIME math or Calculus. Would you guys recommend I study Calculus in depth since it was pretty much discovered for applications in physics or should I get really good at the basic contest prep material? Thank you.</p>
<p>There’s no question at all for this. You absolutely must study calculus. I cannot possibly express just how important calculus is to the study of physics.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, there’s no reason you can’t continue to study and perfect your skills with ‘lesser’ math at the same time. While calculus is <em>vital</em> to physics, it’s also extremely important that you have a complete mastery of all the math that comes before calculus. You should know that it is not impossible to do both. You should also know that the majority of students who apply to Caltech to study physics <em>do</em> both study calculus and constantly improve their abilities with more fundamental mathematics (as is tested on the AMC / AIME exams) at the same time throughout their high school careers. But if the question comes down to taking classes in calculus (or more advanced mathematics) or taking classes that will help prepare you for math competitions, take calculus.</p>
<p>Sorry, to be more clear, I will be taking Calculus B.C as a junior either way, when I say study further, I mean do well on these calculus contests that most people in my class get 1/7 correct on because they are so difficult.(100% passing rate, All 5’s, maybe 1 4, out of a class of 40)</p>
<p>Which calculus contests are those?</p>
<p>In reality, I would get as far ahead in math as fast as possible. Once you’ve exhausted the math curriculum (except for AP Stats, I’m not sure I would recommend wasting your time with that) at your high school, start taking further classes at the local community college. It’s very helpful down the line to be as far advanced as possible in math.</p>