Precalculus: the Mathematics of Numbers, Functions and Equations from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is for anyone who wants to brush up on their basic mathematical skills, particularly students in the last year of high school, or at the beginning of undergraduate studies, who intend to take a first course in calculus. You can use the hashtag #FLprecalculus to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Numbers: integers, rationals, real numbers, absolute value, induction.
Functions: graphs, integer powers, roots and radicals, rational powers.
Algebra: polynomials and their roots, quadratic polynomials, polynomial division, finding roots, binomial coefficients.
Equations: types of equations, equivalence, polynomial equations, equations involving a radical, equations with several radicals/with absolute values, equations in several variables.
Inequalities: linear and polynomial inequalities, inequalities involving radicals and absolute values.

Reviews summary

Solid precalculus foundation for calculus prep

According to students, this course provides a solid foundation in precalculus concepts, making it excellent preparation for calculus. Many learners found the explanations clear and easy to follow. The course structure covers essential topics like numbers, functions, algebra, and equations effectively. However, some reviewers felt the pacing was quite fast at times and the practice problems could be more challenging or varied, with a few noting they needed supplementary resources for deeper understanding. Overall, the feedback is largely positive, particularly regarding its utility as a stepping stone for further math studies.

Mixed feedback on practice exercise quality.

"Some practice problems were great, others felt too easy."

"I wish there were more challenging exercises provided."

"Needed to find extra practice problems elsewhere to feel prepared."

Good coverage of core precalculus topics.

"The course covers all the essential topics you need."

"Provides a comprehensive overview of precalculus."

"Content is well-structured and covers the fundamentals."

Concepts are explained in an understandable way.

"The instructor made complex topics seem simple and clear."

"I really appreciated how the professor broke down each concept."

"The explanations were very clear, which helped me grasp the material easily."

"Everything was explained well, making it easy to follow along."

Course is highly effective for calculus readiness.

"This course is perfect if you're planning to take calculus soon."

"It really helped me brush up on the necessary skills before starting calculus."

"I feel much more confident going into calculus after taking this."

"An excellent review for anyone heading towards calculus studies."

Some learners find the course moves quickly.

"The pace felt a bit too fast at times, especially in later modules."

"I had to pause and rewatch lectures frequently to keep up with the speed."

"Could be better if the pace was slightly slower for beginners."

Career center

Learners who complete Precalculus: the Mathematics of Numbers, Functions and Equations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers: