Learn How to Excel in Calculus

If there is one topic more complicated and strenuous in mathematics that is calculus. If you are studying calculus, chances are it is a subject you’ve chosen to pursue because of a host of reasons. Regardless of how much fascination you may have to thistopic, there will no doubt be many issues and complicated methods that will not be easy to understand.

Studying this subject cannot be done overnight for a test, completing an assignment in just an hour before class will also not be possible. Besides, college is a crucial set of years where finding time for homework will not be easy. They key to achieving excellence is consistency and hard work; more importantly, it is the determination to excel.

Tips to Excel in Calculus

1. Start Early

• There is no such thing as starting preparation on homework too early.
• It is important to start early so that you have enough time to remember all the points and can make the most use of the time at hand.
• Starting early is also important for examinations.
• It is impossible to learn every fact or practice every formula a week before the exam.
• Doing homework consistently means there will only be a need to revise work before a test.
• By starting early, you will have an opportunity to collect as much material on the topic as possible.
• The chance to go over any unforeseen problems and solve them will also be available.
• It is important to do your research before starting an assignment. This will save a lot of time while writing or solving problems.
• You will also be able to learn new techniques and methods that might be simpler and easier to remember.
• Giving yourself enough time to do assignments ensure that there will be time to ask for help and get extra assistance.
• Start planning what you’re going to do and how you’re going to do on the way back from class so that an estimate of time and material can be made.

2. Create a Routine

• Having a routine to do calculus work is of utmost importance.
• Missing one class or hour of homework can cost crucial marks that are necessary to pass.
• Each student has a different study schedule. Make one that suits your needs and daily habits.
• This will also help you cut down on activities that are not necessary or futile.
• If calculus is the main subject that needs to be studied, include at least two hours of study time daily.
• Do not forget to include time for rest, relaxation, extracurricular activities, hobbies and socializing.
• These are all necessary parts of a schedule that ensure you are not too stressed out.
• Having a routine in place also means less panic when it comes to meeting deadlines since following a schedule means starting early and completing work in a systemized and regulated manner.
• While a weekly planner will serve as a general overview of activities; a daily planner will offer a more comprehensive view of activities throughout the day.
• Use a diary, notebook or even a random piece of paper pinned to a board to keep track of everything that needs to be done.
• Having a planned day will give you more time to complete more work at the end of the day, or extra time for TV or games.

3. Take Down Notes

• Most of the information that is needed for a test can be found in assignments and notes given throughout the semester.
• Half your learning can be done, simply by paying attention in class and taking down notes as and when relevant.
• Teachers usually give detailed explanations as to what they expect from an assignment, information that needs to be included and other pointers to make homework less of a chore.
• When studying for a test, going over assignments you’ve already completed is more than sufficient.
• So, basically, if you’ve completed homework effectively and it has been corrected by the teacher, all you’re really required to do is revise.
• Most of the information necessary to deal with calculus problems can be found in the notes given in class.
• Paying attention also ensures that a question can be asked to the teacher immediately in case of any doubt.
• This way, by the time you sit down to complete any task, all your doubts have been cleared and going through projects will be smooth and easy.

4. Stay Organized

• Students spend a lot of time looking for information, notes and material.
• Sometimes, they are required to redo research and other sections of assignments simply because they have lost something or the other.
• If the goal is to save time while doing efficient work – that is worthy of good grades -, then staying organized is the way to do this.
• Keep notes, homework, projects, research, etc., in separate folders or files.
• Use highlighters and markers to mark out only points that are important and useful.
• Keep your desk neatly, do not clutter it or store anything on it that is unnecessary.
• Minimalism is the best way to go. However, ensure that everything you need can be found so that no time is wasted running around the house to look for stationary or pins, etc.

5. Get Rid of Distractions

• The only way to excel at anything is to be focused on the task at hand.
• If you set a routine and schedule for yourself, it is only an hour or two a day that needs to be spent on calculus. This, in the long run, is not a lot of time.
• However, most students find it very difficult to focus on their studies. They are easily distracted by phones, games, TV and other things that surround them in a technology-infused
• It is very important to focus on one problem at a time when it comes to calculus.
• Do not try to multitask to complete homework faster; there will only be more wastage of time.
• Turn off phones, TV and music.
• A study in a quiet and cool space with the least of the amount of distractions and optimal lighting.
• Ask friends, relatives and family members to refrain from disturbing you during this time unless it is absolutely
• Only check social media during breaks.
• Take a break every hour or so. But do not extend the amount of breaks taken as this will lead to procrastination.

6. Find Appropriate Help

• Calculus is not an easy subject, as everyone who has studied it will mention.
• This is why it is very important to get reliable assistance early on.
• Ask a teacher for extra or remedial classes if possible.
• Befriend a studious and knowledgeable student who does not mind helping you in times of need.
• Hire a tutor who can act as a guide for issues, and helps in studying before an examination or test.

These are just ways to ensure that ultimate effort is put into studying a very difficult subject. Eventually, only good results will be yielded and this will be a reward in itself. Having a good structure, plan of action and following through will make life a lot simpler for students who struggle to stay on track.