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Martin Anthony

Mathematics 1 Part 1 is the first of two self-paced courses from LSE which aim to introduce and develop your understanding of essential mathematical concepts, methods and techniques. This course can be taken alone or as part of the LSE MicroBachelors program in Mathematics and Statistics Fundamentals.

Part 1 covers the following topics:

  • Functions and graphs

  • The derivative

  • Curve sketching and optimisation

  • Functions of two variables and partial derivatives

  • Critical points of two-variable functions

Read more

Mathematics 1 Part 1 is the first of two self-paced courses from LSE which aim to introduce and develop your understanding of essential mathematical concepts, methods and techniques. This course can be taken alone or as part of the LSE MicroBachelors program in Mathematics and Statistics Fundamentals.

Part 1 covers the following topics:

  • Functions and graphs

  • The derivative

  • Curve sketching and optimisation

  • Functions of two variables and partial derivatives

  • Critical points of two-variable functions

This course will equip you with the skills to solve unseen mathematical problems in these areas and will emphasise their applications to problems in economics, management, and related areas.

What you'll learn

By the end of this course you will have:

  • used the concepts, terminology, methods and conventions covered in the course to solve mathematical problems
  • the ability to solve unseen mathematical problems involving understanding of these concepts and application of these methods
  • seen how mathematical techniques can be used to solve problems in economics and related subjects
  • acquired skills in the methods of calculus (including multivariate calculus) and linear algebra, as required for their use in economics-based subjects

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Used the concepts, terminology, methods and conventions covered in the course to solve mathematical problems
  • The ability to solve unseen mathematical problems involving understanding of these concepts and application of these methods
  • Seen how mathematical techniques can be used to solve problems in economics and related subjects
  • Acquired skills in the methods of calculus (including multivariate calculus) and linear algebra, as required for their use in economics-based subjects

Syllabus

Functions and graphs
The derivative
Curve sketching and optimisation
Functions of two variables and partial derivatives
Read more
Critical points of two-variable functions
Final exam

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops skills in calculus (including multivariate calculus) and linear algebra, as required for their use in economics-based subjects
Taught by instructors recognized for their work in mathematics
Teaches core concepts in mathematics, including functions and graphs, the derivative, and curve sketching
Examines mathematical techniques used to solve problems in economics and related subjects
Self-paced, allowing learners to study at their own speed

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus with these activities:
Organize Course Materials for Effective Review
Enhance your understanding of course materials by organizing notes, assignments, and quizzes into a coherent and accessible system for easy review.
Browse courses on Functions
Show steps
  • Gather all course materials from lectures, tutorials, and readings.
  • Create a structured filing system for notes, assignments, and quizzes.
  • Utilize color-coding, summaries, and annotations for effective organization.
Review key calculus concepts
Reviewing these concepts before starting the course will help you understand the upcoming lectures more easily and answer questions more effectively.
Show steps
  • Review notes from your previous calculus course.
  • Solve practice problems from a textbook or online resource.
  • Watch videos or tutorials on these topics.
Seek Guidance from a Calculus Tutor
Connect with an experienced calculus tutor who can provide personalized guidance, clarify concepts, and help you overcome challenges.
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Show steps
  • Inquire with the Math department or consult online platforms.
  • Interview potential tutors to find a good fit.
  • Schedule regular sessions and prepare questions.
11 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 14 activities
Learn about Partial Derivatives
By following guided tutorials on partial derivatives, you will gain a deeper understanding of this important concept and its applications.
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Show steps
  • Practice the concepts learned in the tutorials.
  • Find a set of tutorials on partial derivatives.
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes.
Read 'Calculus' by Michael Spivak
Familiarize yourself with foundational calculus concepts through a comprehensive text known for its clear and concise explanations.
Show steps
  • Read each chapter thoroughly and take notes on key concepts.
  • Work through the practice problems at the end of each section.
  • Seek clarification from online resources or a tutor if needed.
Calculus Practice Problems
Regular practice with calculus problems will enhance your problem-solving skills and solidify your understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on Calculus
Show steps
  • Find a collection of calculus practice problems.
  • Work through the problems step-by-step.
  • Check your answers against the provided solutions.
  • Identify areas where you need additional practice.
Follow Video Tutorials on YouTube
Supplement your learning with engaging video tutorials that provide visual explanations and step-by-step guidance.
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Show steps
  • Search for calculus tutorials on YouTube.
  • Choose reputable channels or educators.
  • Watch videos on specific topics to reinforce concepts.
Follow tutorials on multivariate calculus
Following tutorials on multivariate calculus will help you gain a deeper understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on Partial Derivatives
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on multivariate calculus.
  • Follow the tutorials and take notes.
  • Complete the practice exercises provided in the tutorials.
Solve Practice Problems on Khan Academy
Reinforce your understanding of calculus concepts by solving a variety of practice problems.
Browse courses on Functions
Show steps
  • Visit the Khan Academy website or download the app.
  • Navigate to the 'Math' section and select 'Calculus.'
  • Choose a topic and start practicing by solving problems.
Form a Study Group with Classmates
Collaborate with peers to discuss concepts, solve problems together, and quiz each other, enhancing your understanding through shared learning.
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Show steps
  • Identify classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
  • Establish a meeting time and location.
  • Review course materials, work on assignments, and quiz each other.
Develop a Mathematical Model for an Economic Problem
Creating a mathematical model to solve an economic problem will solidify your understanding of functions, derivatives, and partial derivatives by applying them to a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on Economic Modeling
Show steps
  • Identify an economic problem that can be modeled mathematically.
  • Develop the mathematical equations that describe the problem.
  • Use calculus to analyze the model and make predictions.
  • Validate the model by comparing its predictions to real-world data.
Solve practice problems on unseen mathematical questions
Solving practice problems on unseen mathematical questions will help you improve your problem-solving skills and prepare you for the final exam.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or previous exams.
  • Solve the problems without looking at the solutions.
  • Check your answers and identify areas where you need more practice.
Create Visual Aids for Understanding Derivatives
Solidify your understanding of derivatives by creating visual representations, such as graphs, diagrams, or animations, that illustrate the concept.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific aspect of derivatives to focus on.
  • Use software or online tools to create visual aids.
  • Present your visual aids to the class or share them online.
Develop an Interactive Calculus Simulation
Enhance your understanding of calculus by creating an interactive simulation that allows you to manipulate variables and visualize concepts in real-time.
Browse courses on Functions
Show steps
  • Identify a specific calculus concept to simulate.
  • Choose a programming language and development environment.
  • Design and implement the simulation.
  • Test and refine the simulation.

Career center

Learners who complete Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to assess risk and make investment decisions. They may also develop trading strategies and provide advice to clients. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be very useful for this career, as it provides a strong foundation in mathematical modeling, probability, and statistics.
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights into various fields, such as healthcare, finance, and marketing. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can provide a strong foundation for this career, as it helps build skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and interpreting results.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use mathematical and statistical methods to extract knowledge and insights from data. They may work in a variety of industries, such as technology, finance, and healthcare. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be very useful for this career, as it provides a strong foundation in mathematical modeling, data analysis, and machine learning.
Financial Risk Manager
Financial Risk Managers assess and manage financial risks for organizations. They may develop and implement risk management strategies, and provide advice to senior management. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in risk assessment, modeling, and data analysis.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve complex business problems. They may work in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be useful for this career, as it provides a foundation in mathematical modeling, optimization, and data analysis.
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk and uncertainty in various fields, such as insurance, finance, and healthcare. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can provide a strong foundation in this field, since it helps build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis.
Economist
Economists study economic principles and data to understand how economies work. They may work in academia, government, or the private sector. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in economic modeling, data analysis, and forecasting.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. They use this information to make recommendations and improve business operations. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Researcher
Researchers conduct studies and experiments to advance knowledge in a variety of fields, such as science, technology, and social sciences. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus may be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics, such as business strategy, operations, and technology. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus may be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis.
Management Consultant
Management Consultants provide advice to organizations on how to improve their performance. They may work in a variety of industries, such as technology, finance, and healthcare. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus may be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis.
Market Researcher
Market Researchers conduct surveys, analyze data, and provide insights into consumer behavior and market trends. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus may be useful for this role, since it helps build skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and interpreting results.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They may work in a variety of industries, such as technology, finance, and healthcare. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus may be useful for this career, as it helps build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.
Teacher
Teachers develop and implement lesson plans, and instruct students in a variety of subjects. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus can be useful for this career, as it helps build a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and principles.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts develop and evaluate financial plans based on current market conditions. They may also manage investment portfolios and make investment recommendations to clients. Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus may be useful in this role, since it helps build a foundation in understanding economic principles and financial models.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Mathematics 1 Part 1: Differential Calculus.
Comprehensive and rigorous calculus textbook that covers all of the topics in the course, including some more advanced topics such as vector calculus and differential equations.
Classic textbook on mathematical analysis that covers all of the topics in the course, but with a more theoretical and abstract approach.
Comprehensive and well-respected calculus textbook that covers all of the topics in the course, including functions, graphs, derivatives, curve sketching, optimization, functions of two variables, and partial derivatives.
Introduces econometrics, a statistical method used to analyze economic data. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the statistical techniques used in the course, and who are interested in pursuing a career in economics.
Provides a detailed introduction to calculus, with a focus on applications in business, economics, and the social sciences. It good choice for students who need a strong foundation in calculus before taking the course.
Introduces natural language processing for economics, a branch of economics that uses natural language processing techniques to study economic data. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the statistical techniques used in the course.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to probability and statistics, with a focus on applications in economics. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the statistical techniques used in the course.
Introduces behavioral economics, a branch of economics that studies the psychological and social factors that influence economic decision-making. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the economic concepts used in the course.
Introduces econometrics for finance, a branch of econometrics that deals with the statistical modeling of financial data. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the statistical techniques used in the course.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to international economics, a branch of economics that studies the interactions between countries. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the economic concepts used in the course.
Introduces public economics, a branch of economics that studies the role of government in the economy. It good choice for students who want to learn more about the economic concepts used in the course.
Covers a wide range of mathematical topics relevant to economics, including calculus, linear algebra, probability, and statistics. It good supplement to the course, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.
Introduces linear algebra, a branch of mathematics that is used extensively in economics and finance. It useful reference for students who want to learn more about the mathematical techniques used in the course.

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