These kinds of math courses have a reputation! However, it may be best not to be too impressed or intimidated by what you hear. You are capable of doing just fine.

Calculus is a history course as much as it is a mathematics course. It is a culmination of your previous work in algebra and in pre-calculus, extending your abilities to describe, model and analyze a wide variety of important problems and concepts. 

Yes, the course is challenging but a good challenge is the only real path to growth and development, as long as give yourself the chance to make smart effort and develop the right habits. Calculus is an opportunity to develop the discipline that will help grow the analytical and logical thinking skills that will also serve you in life. And you may find that the topic is cool too.

You can do it! The main challenge that students seem to experience in this class is not the pre-calculus or calculus but, instead, they find the main challenge in previous basic algebra and math proficiency skills and confidence. I understand! This is normal. So, the course is designed with the need for review of prerequisite material in mind, stuff you may have forgotten about or never quite learned, and to include that review as needed throughout our learning.

What else can you do? Be open to new insights about your true abilities in math. Sometimes bad experiences can be very discouraging—and they can deceive and make you think you can’t do some things. But don’t fall for that. It’s not true. It is also not true that people are either born with math ability or not. The truth is that such mathematical proficiency can be developed and strengthened with effort and good strategies, and by placing value on your own judgment. Trust your instincts about what makes sense and what does not make sense.

Your imagination is requested! Contrary to popular opinion, we aim for all students to believe and be confident in your own gut—to use and trust your imaginative and creative instincts—it is really important in the learning of mathematics! Don’t just accept formulas from strangers!!

What about mistakes? Errors? Make them! Remember that making mistakes is an important part of learning, and most people don’t think this is acceptable in the learning of math. But mistakes are often your greatest teacher. When mistakes are made, and we reflect upon them, then real learning is happening. Obviously, we want to move towards making less mistakes. But we only get there by making mistakes. It is the path of gaining true understanding and mastery. So I respect the making of mistakes when we ensure that the reflection, revision and careful review of them leads to better understanding.