<p>I'm an entering freshmen and I haven't done AP Calculus. I'd like to do the most challenging calculus course available to me (aka an introductory calculus course) but the UT website and Math Department gives a lot of conflicting information about which one is harder or more challenging. Out of M408C and M408K, which one should I take?</p>
<p>What’s your major? M408C is definitely supposed to be the harder course. It goes at a faster pace since it is differential and integral calculus in one semester (equivalent to m408k and m408l). 408K and L are multiple choice tests. 408c and 408d are free response with partial credit.</p>
<p>Really it depends on how well your background is in maths, and how much math you’re able to absorb and process into visual information. For example, when you see tan(x), you should see the graph in your head visually, as well as the identities 1/cot, sin/cos, and possible manipulations 1+tan^2 = sec^2 ect. Also, you should have a pretty strong understanding of algebra and trigonometry, know how to algebraically manipulate functions in that you are able to find each single component in the function. If I give you ln(x)=z+sqrt(y^2-4) you better be what x, y and z are equal to. If you are good at taking in information in class, processing it and making it fit the whole picture, as well as do a bit of learning yourself in your free time, then you’ll be fine for 408C/D. -math major</p>
<p>I guess you could call me “pre-med”. I don’t really know what I want to do right now, but I do know that I want to keep every door open, which means that I want to at least attempt to fulfill pre med requirements. Aside from that, I want a strong preparation for any math that might pop up in any research or statistics course. And lastly, I think I’ll enjoy just the challenge of a harder calculus class. </p>
<p>Thanks athenos and Alexlin for your advice! I’ll be taking 408C!</p>