My only reservation

[heartsink]

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Hey all,

This winter ill be returning to begin all my premed prereqs. Having no science background I have about 2 years of classes ahead, which doesn't really phase me. The only class I'm concerned about is physics: my math is something of a weak spot. Not because I'm bad at it, moreso because of the unexpected death of a teacher in high school that effectively held an entire class back senior year (school didn't know how to handle the situation).

I got through algebra and was pretty good at trig but its been a very long time and my trig is probably not reliable any more. I'm worried I won't have the fundamentals down before I start physics and I will flounder trying to catch up.

What math concepts are needed before someone tries physics? Would it be too much of a set back to take a math class preceding physics to get a grasp of it or would it be enough for me to self-study and relearn it on my own? And if the latter is possible, what are good sites for reviewing pre-physics math or math needs to learn physics?

 

[cabinbuilder]

Hey all,

This winter ill be returning to begin all my premed prereqs. Having no science background I have about 2 years of classes ahead, which doesn't really phase me. The only class I'm concerned about is physics: my math is something of a weak spot. Not because I'm bad at it, moreso because of the unexpected death of a teacher in high school that effectively held an entire class back senior year (school didn't know how to handle the situation).

I got through algebra and was pretty good at trig but its been a very long time and my trig is probably not reliable any more. I'm worried I won't have the fundamentals down before I start physics and I will flounder trying to catch up.

What math concepts are needed before someone tries physics? Would it be too much of a set back to take a math class preceding physics to get a grasp of it or would it be enough for me to self-study and relearn it on my own? And if the latter is possible, what are good sites for reviewing pre-physics math or math needs to learn physics?

Take the algebra based physics. It helps to have a teacher who is good at showing every step of the calculation instead of math shortcuts. I have a really hard time in math too and my foundation is very shaky. I had a great physics teacher who took the time to help me with the math, I stayed after class every day and went to office hours all the time so I could get it - I spent so much time with him we are still really good friends to this day 14 years later. Be sure to do ALL the homework early so you can get help. It doesn't help you to try to finish at the last minute and still not understand. Get a study partner who is strong in math to help you with the homework.

 

[Shjanzey]

As far as trig goes I think you only need to know two concepts.

1) Pythagorean Theorem
2) SOHCAHTOA

Solid Algebra will win you the war. Half the time on an MCAT question I'll just look at the provided formula and plug and play.

A lot of review books have really handy tricks for quick math. So if you can round values to get a quicker approximate answer you will be fine. Don't stress too much 😀

 

[brownbaglunch]

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[Pose]

Get a quick algebra/trig review book with practice problems and explanations to go through before the class, it'll help a ton. Once in the class, do every single practice problem. You may not be able to do many of them on your first pass, but by reviewing your mistakes you'll end up super prepared for most quizzes and exams. At least I was compared to my peers that only did the assigned work.

Khan Academy is good, and Chad's videos are exceptional (but are a paid subscription). I also just Youtube'd things I was having problems with - you'll find hundreds of awesome explanations and worked problems from random people.

Don't sweat it. It's a class that you can do well in if you practice.

 

[wholeheartedly]

Second checking out khan academy for an algebra review/ confidence booster. Its free and a good resource. He also covers physics as well.

 

[edgerock24]

As far as trig goes I think you only need to know two concepts.

1) Pythagorean Theorem
2) SOHCAHTOA

Agree. You can learn these concepts in 15 minutes if you are unfamiliar with them.

Physics is less about pure "math" and more about placing figures in their correct spots, in the correct formulas, then finishing the formula (using algebra -- nothing insane though). This is learned through attending lectures and doing a bunch of practice problems throughout the semester. Honestly, physics is more interesting than a typical math class, because a lot of the problems are applied to real life situations.

 

[CW 2010]

I was apprehensive about taking Physics as well, since math is my weakest spot. And I ended up getting A's in both Physics I and II. Just like others have said, make sure you take an algebra-based Physics. It's going to make a huge difference! The algebra in Physics is very basic - exponents, solving simple equations, and vectors. And there is some very basic trig. If I could do it, you can do it for sure! There is no need to take a math class.
To succeed in the Physics class I:
1) read the chapter before each lecture
2) did all homework + problems at the end of the chapters in the book
3) made sure I understood all math steps in each problem
4) I did go to the tutoring center a few times
6) I have watched numerous videos on Youtube to help with the problems (Khan Academy is great, but there a lot others that are good - just type whatever you want to find in the search box and see what comes out)

Good luck!

 

[pretzels]

A lot of really encouraging posts here. I'm glad I asked, I feel a lot less stressed about taking this class now that I know it doesn't take a math god to get an A. Much appreciated, thanks everyone.

 

[jombojuice22]

Yet another +1 for Khan academy. Pre-calculus math is its specialty. You can watch video 'lectures" which are broken up into easily digestible lengths (no more than 5-10 minutes each), and then do practice problems to solidify what you learned. If you have trouble with the practice problems, you can ask for hints and have it walk you through. Can't say enough good things about it. There is no excuse for not being solid on this stuff.

Git err dun: https://www.khanacademy.org/