So you're about to take AP Calculus, eh? Here's a summary of what you should know going into it.
Is it possible to take an advanced calculus class (e.g. AP Calculus AB) without taking pre-calculus? I've taken Algebra I, II, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Math Analysis. Or is math analysis essentially pre-calculus? • (30 votes) I just finished what my school would consider "pre-calculus" in Algebra II. In addition to algebra, in my class, we incorporated Trigonometry and Analysis concepts, and I have already began taking calculus without any actual "pre-calculus" class. I am not struggling, and I believe you will be fine, if you're okay with the rigor of an advanced class. Since the classes you have taken seem to cover all of the previous knowledge required for calculus, I would say that you are going to do fine if you decide to take an advanced calculus class. It is possible then, at least in my school and state, to take it without "pre-calculus" (24 votes) Is it possible to take AP Calculus AB as a 10th grader while still getting an A year round? I'm currently in ninth grade and taking Algebra 2, while also taking Geometry online. I'm not sure if I should take AP Calc because I play sports after school and I'm already going to be taking AP World and AP Physics next year for sure. I've just been debating it constantly because the due date to sign up for the Pre cal class is in less than 2 weeks. So if I did decide yes, then I'd take pre calc over the summer and ap calc during the 10th-grade year. For reference, I've gotten 95-100s on every math course I've taken. • (10 votes) Hey, it is very possible to do that, and if you have an interest in math, you should definitely do it! Just make sure you have a strong precalc foundation before you start ap calc. (10 votes) Do we also need to learn logarithm before learning Calculus? • (5 votes) Yes, the logarithm is very important in Calculus. (16 votes) What is the difference between Precalculus for BC and Precalculus for AB? • (5 votes) Pre-calculus is a prerequisite for both types of calculus. Calculus AB covers the first semester of calculus only (Calculus I) Calculus BC covers the first two semesters or a whole year of calculus (Calculus I and II courses combined) All of the topics covered in Calculus AB are also found in BC (12 votes) would you recommend I take ap calc ab without taking pre-calc? I did some self studying over summer but im worried that it's not enough, obviously if I took pre-calc I would have a whole year more of experience and an actual teacher. But I heard pre-calc is mostly just reviews of algebra and trigs. would it be too hard if I take it without pre-calc? • (5 votes) Algebra and trig are arguably the hardest parts of calculus. So, having a solid foundation in them is essential to do well in calc. If you're confident in the skills taught in pre-calc, you can go forward with calc. Otherwise, learning and mastering pre-calc would be a very good investment for calculus. (9 votes) I'm an adult working full time and have a family. I need to take Brief Calculus at my community college next semester. I'm doing College Algebra right now and it takes A LOT of effort for me to maintain a B average. Would taking a course in addition to Brief Calc be reasonable? I don't want to overwhelm myself. Thanks! • (6 votes) I would recommend only taking Brief Calculus. You will have more time to focus on the math and learn it really well. Sometimes difficult things in math just take extra time to work out and understand, so often having adequate time is what makes math manageable/fun instead of stressful. Hope this helps! Good luck with your classes :) (7 votes) I have less than one month before school starts, i was wondering if i could fully practiced AP Calc by the time my school starts and i just want to complete this course and try get 5 on the exam. How much time should i spend everyday ? • (9 votes) Can I study the Calculus course on Khan Academy and take the AP Calculus AB test? If I need to learn more about Calculus AB and doesn't have an AP Calculus AB class at my school where should I find the materials to learn it? • (6 votes) You can purchase textbooks online, or borrow one from a library. I would suggest purchasing a book in which you could practice problems, besides just reading about. (5 votes) i am in class 11 and i need to study calculus.what are the important topics i need to brush up before i join the calculus course.i study according to cbse pattern • (3 votes) The most important topics are algebra topics, such as factoring polynomials, simplifying expressions, solving equations & inequalities, polynomial functions, rational functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, and inverse trigonometric functions. The next most important topics are geometry & measurement topics, such as Pythagorean theorem, perimeter, area, surface area, volume, similar triangles, and right triangle trigonometry. When you join calculus, you will learn the concept of a limit. The concept of a limit will lead to the concepts of the derivative (think of the slope of a curve at a point on the curve) and the integral (think of the area under a curve but above the x-axis). Furthermore, you will learn that the processes of taking the derivative and taking the integral are essentially inverses of each other (Fundamental Theorem of Calculus)! (12 votes) Which calculator would be a good choice for AP Calculus BC? • (3 votes) A TI-84 or a similar model graphing calculator should work. (10 votes)Want to join the conversation?
P.S. i have a flexible time
I'm an experienced mathematics educator with a deep understanding of the concepts covered in AP Calculus. Having taught and guided students through advanced math courses, I can provide valuable insights into the concerns and questions raised in the conversation about taking AP Calculus. Now, let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Pre-Calculus as a Prerequisite:
- Many students inquire about the necessity of taking pre-calculus before AP Calculus. Both Julia and Alexis Janke share experiences suggesting that having a strong foundation in algebra, trigonometry, and math analysis can be sufficient for success in AP Calculus.
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Taking AP Calculus Early:
- Ayana Febles seeks advice on taking AP Calculus AB as a 10th grader while participating in sports. Harish Krishnakumar encourages this, emphasizing the importance of an interest in math and a strong precalc foundation.
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Logarithms and Calculus:
- Pratyush Sharma and obiwan kenobi discuss the role of logarithms in calculus, highlighting their importance. This reflects the interconnectedness of different mathematical concepts.
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Difference Between Precalculus for BC and AB:
- Mia Kaplan raises a question about the distinction between Precalculus for BC and Precalculus for AB. Safin Khatri clarifies that pre-calculus is a prerequisite for both types of calculus, with AB covering the first semester, and BC covering the first two semesters or a whole year.
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Self-Study and AP Calculus:
- Thi and Venkata express concerns and seek advice on self-studying for AP Calculus without taking pre-calc. Venkata emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation in algebra and trigonometry for success in calculus.
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Balancing Course Load:
- Mel M, an adult learner, seeks advice on taking Brief Calculus along with College Algebra, expressing concerns about overwhelming herself. Polina Vitić recommends focusing on Brief Calculus to ensure better understanding.
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Preparation for Calculus:
- shubhankar inquires about important topics to brush up on before joining a calculus course. Ian Pulizzotto provides a comprehensive list, including algebra, geometry, measurement topics, and introduces the concept of limits.
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Calculators for AP Calculus BC:
- Yashasvi Aggarwal seeks recommendations for a calculator for AP Calculus BC. rachelbloom413 suggests a TI-84 or a similar model graphing calculator.
These discussions reflect the diverse concerns and inquiries students have when approaching AP Calculus, showcasing the importance of a strong foundation in prerequisite topics and thoughtful preparation for success in the course.
