Financial Math Primer for Absolute Beginners

Do equations freak you out? Are you scared of numbers? Chances are, you had a terrible math teacher in school. It's time to take back control. And finally get the foundation you need for financial math.

The fact is, you need to be at least reasonably good at mathematics to study any aspect of Finance.

This holds whether you want to study Personal Finance, or the more "formal" Finance (be that Corporate Finance, Quantitative Finance / Asset Pricing).

Whether you're student studying Finance or a professional working at a hedge fund or financial institution... If you've got a weak background in mathematics and you're exploring Finance, it's time to get past and conquer your fear of mathematics and equations.

It's time to get past your fear of equations / numbers, and to embrace the simplicity of Financial Mathematics.

Discover the no judgement, no pressure Financial Math Primer for Absolute Beginners course.

Explore the core concepts of mathematics you need to know in order to work with financial mathematics and Finance in general.

Learn how to rearrange equations, expand brackets, group / factorise variables, and a whole lot more.

Finally bid goodbye to your fear of mathematics, equations, and numbers.

Here's your 5 step journey to building a rock solid foundation in Financial Math.

Discover why math really is a language. Learn how to transform an English statement into a mathematical equation.

Gain familiarity with the most common financial math notations and never feel intimidated by the Greek letters, ever again.

Take the baby steps and learn how to read equations from scratch.

# 2: The Fundamentals (Getting the Absolute Basics Right)

Discover the 5 Golden Rules of mathematics that will help you take back control of the equations.
See how these 5 incredibly simple rules can help you rearrange any equation - regardless of how complex it may be.
We'll use these 5 rules alone to write an entire financial math proof from scratch, together.

# 3: Playing with Equations

Explore how to simplify, expand, and factorise equations from scratch.
Start from the most basic expressions before gradually building up to more advanced and complex equations.
Get comfortable with manipulating and rearranging equations, just by applying the Golden Rules.

# 4: Financial Math Essentials

Explore the single concept on which 70%-80% of Finance is based on - the Present Value.
Discover the Future Value and how it interacts with the Present Value.
Take command of the simple concept which drives the entire process for stock valuation, bond valuation, and a whole lot more.

# 5: Writing a Proof

Leverage your new rock solid foundations by writing a financial math proof from scratch.
Explore precisely how and why the Present Value of an Annuity works the way it does.
Take things to the next level by going solo and proving the Present Value of a Perpetuity all by yourself.

Here's how we'll help you build a rock solid foundation in Financial Mathematics:

A Solid Foundation

You’ll gain a solid foundation of the core fundamentals that drive the entire Financial Math process. These fundamentals are the essence of Financial Math, regardless of what level you look at. Put differently, these fundamentals will hold you in good stead, indefinitely.

Example Question Walkthroughs

Explore each equation one variable at a time, one letter at a time. See step-by-step walkthroughs that help and empower you to see precisely how and why equations are rearranged the way they are.

Loads of Practice Questions

Apply what you learn immediately with 100+ Financial Math Quiz Questions, all with impeccably detailed solutions. Plus, Financial Math assignments that take you outside your comfort zone.

Proofs & Resources

Mathematical proofs with easy to follow, step-by-step instructions so you can take control of the Financial Math yourself. No guesswork.

Finally get the foundation you need in Financial Math.

Enroll now and get past your fear of equations and mathematics. Then write your own mathematical proof from scratch.

What's inside

Syllabus

Before You Start...

Welcome to the course. Here's what you'll master.

Course FAQs

Important: Course Pointers

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Breaks down intimidating equations into manageable steps, which is helpful for learners who struggle with mathematical concepts in finance

Focuses on the Present Value concept, which is a cornerstone for understanding stock valuation, bond valuation, and other financial instruments

Includes numerous practice questions and assignments, which allows learners to apply their knowledge and reinforce their understanding of financial math

Requires learners to write mathematical proofs, which may be challenging for absolute beginners without prior exposure to formal mathematical reasoning

Covers topics such as simplifying, expanding, and factorising equations, which are essential skills for manipulating financial formulas and models

Teaches the 'Golden Rules of Mathematics,' which may oversimplify mathematical concepts and not fully prepare learners for advanced financial modeling

Reviews summary

Clear financial math for absolute beginners

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation for financial math, ideally suited for absolute beginners, particularly those with math anxiety. Students found the explanations clear and the approach step-by-step, which was highly effective for overcoming their fear. It covers core finance concepts like PV and FV. Reviewers noted its strictly introductory level, meaning those with some math background might find it too basic.

Best suited for absolute beginners.

"If you are truly an absolute beginner, this course is perfect."

"Someone with basic math might find the initial parts too slow or simple."

"It assumes you know nothing about math or finance equations before starting."

Useful quizzes and assignments provided.

"The quizzes after each section were really helpful for checking my understanding."

"I appreciated the included practice questions and detailed solutions."

"Working through the assignment proofs helped solidify my grasp of the material."

Solid foundation in core concepts.

"It provides a solid foundation in the math needed for finance."

"Focusing on PV and FV was exactly what I needed as a starting point."

"I learned the absolute basics required to understand financial formulas."

Helps reduce anxiety around math.

"This course helped me get past my fear of financial equations."

"I was terrified of numbers, but this primer made it approachable and manageable."

"It really lives up to its promise of being beginner-friendly and no-judgement."

Concepts explained step-by-step simply.

"The instructor explains everything so clearly, breaking down complex ideas."

"I finally understand how to rearrange equations thanks to the step-by-step examples provided."

"The material is presented in a simple, easy-to-digest way, perfect for someone new to this subject."

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 Financial Math Primer for Absolute Beginners - Core Finance with these activities:

Review Basic Algebra

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Strengthen your understanding of fundamental algebraic concepts. This will provide a solid foundation for manipulating financial equations.

Browse courses on Algebra

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Review key algebraic concepts.
Practice solving basic equations.
Work through example problems.

Basic Mathematics

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Reinforce your understanding of mathematical methods. This book provides a broad overview of relevant mathematical concepts.

View Neural Networks are Homeomorphisms: An... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Review relevant chapters.
Work through example problems.

Create Flashcards for Financial Math Notations

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Memorize common financial math notations. This will help you quickly understand and apply formulas.

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Identify key financial notations.
Create flashcards with definitions.
Review flashcards regularly.

Four other activities

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Equation Rearrangement Exercises

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Practice rearranging equations to isolate variables. This directly reinforces the 'Golden Rules' taught in the course.

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Find practice problems online.
Rearrange equations using the golden rules.
Check your answers.

Schaum's Outline of Mathematical Methods for Business and Economics

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Reinforce your understanding of mathematical methods. This book provides a broad overview of relevant mathematical concepts.

View Putting Knowledge to Work on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Review relevant chapters.
Work through example problems.

Build a Simple Present Value Calculator

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Apply your knowledge of present value calculations. This will solidify your understanding of the core concept in finance.

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Choose a programming language or spreadsheet software.
Implement the present value formula.
Test the calculator with different inputs.

Tutor a classmate

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Solidify your understanding by explaining concepts to others. Teaching reinforces your own knowledge.

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Find a classmate who needs help.
Explain the concepts clearly.
Answer their questions.

Career center

Learners who complete Financial Math Primer for Absolute Beginners - Core Finance will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Financial Analyst

A financial analyst analyzes financial data to provide insights and recommendations for investment decisions. This course helps build a foundation in financial mathematics, covering essential concepts like present value and future value, which are crucial for performing accurate financial analyses. Mastering equation manipulation, as taught in this course, helps a financial analyst to analyze financial statements and build financial models, which is essential for forecasting and valuation. This course may be useful for anyone who wants to become a financial analyst and needs to improve their quantitative skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Quantitative Analyst

A quantitative analyst, often called a quant, develops and implements mathematical models for pricing derivatives, managing risk, and predicting market movements. This course helps overcome the fear of equations and numbers, which is essential for this math intensive field. A strong understanding of present value, future value, and financial mathematics notation, as taught in this course, is fundamental to quantitative analysis. The course's focus on proofs and mathematical manipulation helps quants develop and validate complex financial models. Further study of advanced math may be needed for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Hedge Fund Analyst

A hedge fund analyst supports investment decisions by conducting research and analysis on potential investment opportunities. This course helps to gain a solid grounding in financial mathematics to succeed in this role. By understanding present value, future value, and the ability to rearrange financial equations, an individual can take their analytical skills to the next level. This course may be useful for those who would like to grow their confidence in their analytical and financial expertise.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hedge Fund Analyst

Investment Banker

An investment banker helps companies raise capital through the issuance of stocks and bonds. This course may be useful for building a solid foundation in financial mathematics. This course helps with understanding present value and future value, which are fundamental to valuing securities and structuring deals. The course's emphasis on manipulating equations and working with financial notation helps an investment banker perform financial modeling and analysis with confidence. Investment bankers can use this course to solidify their mathematical skills or brush up on some math concepts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Banker

Portfolio Manager

A portfolio manager constructs and manages investment portfolios to achieve specific financial goals. This course may be useful for helping a portfolio manager to better understand the core concepts of financial math, such as present value, in order to make the best decisions. This course helps master the manipulation of financial equations and understanding financial notation. Individuals interested in portfolio management can take this course to strengthen the mathematical foundation that informs their investment strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Portfolio Manager

Financial Planner

A financial planner helps individuals and families achieve their financial goals through budgeting, saving, and investing. This course helps to clarify the core concepts of financial mathematics, such as present value and future value, which are essential for creating effective financial plans. Learning how to manipulate equations and understanding financial notation, as taught in the lessons, helps a financial planner develop accurate projections and recommendations. Individuals interested in financial planning can take this course to solidify their understanding of the mathematical principles that underpin successful strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Planner

Real Estate Analyst

A real estate analyst evaluates the financial viability of real estate investments. This course helps to solidify an understanding of financial mathematics, including present value and future value calculations, essential for valuing properties and assessing investment returns. Gaining experience manipulating equations and working with financial notation can better prepare an analyst to build financial models and analyze investment opportunities. Individuals interested in real estate analysis can take this course to strengthen the financial foundation that informs their evaluations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Analyst

Actuary

An actuary assesses and manages financial risks, typically for insurance companies. This course may be useful for gaining a solid foundation in financial mathematics, including present value and future value calculations, which are crucial for actuarial work. The course's emphasis on manipulating equations and understanding financial notation helps an actuary build and interpret complex actuarial models. Actuaries can use this course to improve their quantitative confidence and problem solving abilities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Credit Analyst

A credit analyst assesses the creditworthiness of borrowers to determine the risk of lending money. This course helps to establish foundational knowledge in financial mathematics, including present value and future value concepts which are used for credit risk modeling. It may be useful for gaining the ability to manipulate equations and work with financial notation to analyze financial statements and assess a borrower's ability to repay debt. Individuals who wish to become credit analysts can use this course to bolster their quantitative skill set.

See salaries and explore the career path for Credit Analyst

Treasury Analyst

A treasury analyst manages a company's cash flow, investments, and financial risk. This course helps to reinforce a solid foundation in financial mathematics, including present value and future value, to effectively manage corporate finances. Comfort manipulating equations and understanding financial notation can enhance an analyst's ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions about cash management and investment strategies. Someone who wants to become a treasury analyst can use this course to refine their quantitative abilities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Treasury Analyst

Commercial Lender

A commercial lender provides loans to businesses to finance their operations and growth. This course can reinforce the importance of financial mathematics, including present value and future value, for assessing the creditworthiness of loan applicants. The ability to manipulate equations and understand financial notation can better enable commercial lenders to analyze financial statements and determine appropriate loan terms. Commercial lenders can use this course to refine their quantitative skills for informed decision making.

See salaries and explore the career path for Commercial Lender

Budget Analyst

A budget analyst develops and manages budgets for organizations, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively. This course provides a foundation in financial mathematics, including mastering present value and future value concepts, that can inform the budget creation process. The ability to manipulate equations and understand financial notation can further enhance an analyst's ability to analyze financial data and make informed recommendations about resource allocation. This course may be useful for those who wish to become budget analysts, improving their analytical and financial skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Budget Analyst

Management Consultant

A management consultant advises organizations on how to improve their performance and efficiency. This course may be useful for building a foundation in financial mathematics that would allow a management consultant to understand the financial drivers of a business. Strengthening equation manipulation skills can enable a consultant to analyze financial data and develop data-driven recommendations for clients. The course's emphasis on financial math essentials further helps the consultant advise on financial strategy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant

Auditor

An auditor examines financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. This course may be useful for developing a solid foundation in financial mathematics, enabling a deeper understanding of the financial data being examined. The ability to manipulate equations and work with financial notation can further assist an auditor in analyzing financial statements and identifying discrepancies. Individuals interested in auditing can take this course to bolster their mathematical confidence.

See salaries and explore the career path for Auditor

Economist

An economist studies the production and distribution of resources, analyzing economic trends and forecasting future conditions. This course may be useful for gaining familiarity with financial mathematics, which is relevant to economic modeling and analysis. The ability to manipulate equations and understand financial notation can enhance an economist's understanding of financial markets and their impact on the broader economy. Individuals who aspire to become economists may find value in this course to strengthen their mathematical foundation, especially if they are weak in math.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Financial Math Primer for Absolute Beginners - Core Finance.

Neural Networks are Homeomorphisms

Save

Provides a solid foundation in basic mathematics. It covers topics such as arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. It useful reference for students who need to strengthen their mathematical skills. This book is valuable as additional reading to supplement the course material.

Neural Networks are Homeomorphisms: An Introduction...

Paperback

Putting Knowledge to Work

Save

Provides a comprehensive review of mathematical concepts relevant to business and economics. It covers topics such as algebra, calculus, and optimization. It useful reference for students who need to strengthen their mathematical skills. This book is valuable as additional reading to supplement the course material.

Putting Knowledge to Work

Paperback

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Putting Knowledge to Work

Kindle Edition

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Financial Math Primer for Absolute Beginners - Core Finance

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Clear financial math for absolute beginners

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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