COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Tips for Success in Calculus I Calculus is a study of how things change. In particular, it is the foundation for creating modeling systems. Building on concepts learned in algebra and trigonometry, Calculus has two areas that help to approximate and simulate real-world phenomena. Those two areas are derivatives which are used to evaluate rates of change and integrals which are used to find area and volume among other physical characteristics. The following tips are provided to help enhance your understanding of the course material and to assist you in successfully completing the course. Review algebra and trigonometry (evaluation algebraic and trigonometric functions, graphing, etc). Know your trigonometric identities. Attend class every day and work on Calculus problems daily.
Regularly attend faculty office hours and help sessions.
Use your resources on a regular basis. Attend Supplemental Instruction sessions, Learning Assistant sessions, and tutoring. Complete all assigned problems. Practice assigned problems until you can finish them without referring to notes or getting help. Review your class notes before doing your homework and before attending class. Memorize definitions, formulas and theorems immediately.
Don’t wait until the exam.
Form study groups and quiz each other frequently.
A CST Academic Support Initiative | Funded by Title III