HOW TO SUCCEED IN MATH 180
1. Take the course seriously.
:: Work as many of the Recommended Problems as you think necessary. A good
strategy is to work the odd-numbered problems and check your answers with those in the
back section of the book. Then select the even-numbered problems that appear difficult
and try some of them. If you are unsure of your work, be sure to ask questions in the
classroom. Problems on the exams and quizzes will be similar to those on the homework
list.
2. Exploit the free tutoring resources available to you.
:: CAPS--3rd Floor of Zimmermann Library--free tutoring service on a drop-in
basis and by appointment. CAPS also provides timely reviews of the Math 180 material
before each mid-term exam and before the final exam. Sample exams are given in a test
environment so that you will be familiar with the material and the usual exam pressures.
The times and locations of these reviews and sample exams will be announced on flyers
distributed by CAPS. These reviews can be very helpful.
:: The Calculus Table--located in DSH on the 3rd floor next to the elevator,
typically manned by one or two graduate students or instructors from about 9am to about
2 or 3pm, Monday through Friday. These will start on Monday Jan. 22 and a schedule of
times and instructors will be provided. Any calculus student can go there at any time
the table is manned.
:: Your instructor will determine his or her office hours and will be available for
course-related help. If the office hours are not compatible with your schedule, tell your
instructor and try to arrange a meeting at some other time.
:: Work with other Math 180 students, ideally in groups of 3 to 5, on homework
problems and in preparing for an exam. You can often learn more from your classmates
and peers than you can from your instructor.
3. Improve your basic algebra skills.
:: Most students of Math 180 have much more difficulty with basic algebra than
they do with calculus. The calculus concepts, while very powerful, are not difficult to
understand. A weakness in algebra, however, will limit your ability to apply these
concepts. Math 110 is a special course in the algebra techniques that are most important
for calculus. It is a 1-unit course, free to all Math 180 students, that closely tracks the
Math 180 syllabus and reviews the algebra techniques appropriate for the current calculus
lecture material.
4. Really, take the course seriously. It’s not that difficult. Work and understand
the Recommended Problems on the syllabus and you will have little trouble with the
exams. Get help when you need it.