Reply #14: Knowing algebra is actually very important. And I learned to like it. [View All]

[Gregorian]

I literally burned several math books. If you think calling on students is bad, and I know what you mean, then you probably hate what I still hate. Math books suck! I used to envision punching the author in the nose. They'd show the steps, omitting several that they thought were trivial, and then they'd say, "Clearly.....". And of course, it was not clear at all.

Algebra is very important. And I'll never forget the period in my life (after 30 years old BTW), when suddenly the light went on, and I could actually do word problems! Wow. I wasn't so stupid after all.

However, even after five years of calculus, I will never be able to use it. So I can totally understand where you're coming from.

Just start simple. Get a tutor. Practice practice practice. And remember, it's all based on algebra. Algebra is it. It's the most fundamental of it all. If it's intimidating, it's because it's a big deal. And you can do it. And don't be affraid of the professor. Fuck him. Just say you don't know. But study it because it's useful, not because you have to pass a course.

And feel free to ignore me. Most people do.