This is copied from my old blog (2023), for students applying to universities.
Most of my work is tutoring secondary school maths, including plenty of support with math-adjacent activities. And, right now, it’s University applications season! Read on, for my 10 tips on how to write an excellent Personal Statement or application essay…
I work with students on applications for undergraduate degrees in math and math-related subjects (also Computer Science, Finance, Economics, Data Science, Psychology, Medicine). And, students hoping to continue their university studies with a post-graduate Masters or PhD application. I have students applying across the globe, to universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE, Stanford, Harvard, Amsterdam, Bocconi, etc. Every application will ask for some kind of written essay or “Personal Statement”. You gotta write about yourself, hoping for an offer of a place on the course.
I personally love working on Personal Statements – It’s super-interesting to see what students say about themselves! I like to hear what they want to say at first, when they’re not so confident and feel shy writing about themselves. And then I also love what they submit in the end, when they read it back and feel that buzz of pride in themselves.
How should you write your Personal Statement? I’m always amazed to see what advice is given to students. Well-meaning adults often give bad advice, maybe because they don’t think about what an admissions person will be looking for. I have heard bizarre suggestions that don't work well in practice - sometimes from schoolteachers, and even from the universities themselves!
When we start the journey of writing an application essay, I like to imagine it will end with an admissions tutor who is quite bored of all the personal statements they have to read. They might only properly read the first paragraph and last sentence of what you write (or even less!), without even glancing at the rest of your documents. Even the best admissions processes are run by real people who are not always perfect.
If I am that bored admissions tutor, I just want to read convincing evidence that you are a good student. I want to choose an undergraduate student who won’t have any problem understanding the core modules of the course, and who will get through the three years and will pass the course – ideally, one who I can imagine might just end up with a first class degree.
So, some tips:
1. Write your key academic achievements first and last
The first and last few sentences are most important for your key message. And the key message you want to communicate is "I am a good student for this course". So, say that: In the first paragraph, talk about your recent best successes in academic terms, talk about your A-Levels and predicted grades, say that you're really keen to study more, ideally with the exact name of the course.
2. Write for one course
Normally, you should tailor your application to exactly the course you are applying for - the same as a job application. That means: a new application for each course, using the name of the institution and the name of the course in your writing, and adapting your writing to emphasise the details of that course. For UCAS applications, you can't exactly do that. You may need to "hedge" and write for multiple courses at once. But, try to do it for one course anyway: pick out the course that's your ideal goal, and imagine you are writing for that course specifically. As long as you don't use specific names, your other courses should be similar enough that your application works there too - your writing will automatically have the right vibe.
3. Use key words from the First Year of the course
You want to communicate that you know exactly what course you are applying for and what you'll be doing when you arrive, and using key topic words from the course is a great way to do this. Go to the course website, then go to the first year (or "Core") modules, look at the syllabus for each module, find as much detail as you can, and make a note of the topics that you already know confidently about at the right level. Drop the topics in, as key words, when you talk about your relevant experiences.
4. Don't write poetry
"I first became passionate about Finance when I was seven-years-old!" - it might be tempting to do some creative writing, but nobody wants to read through another application from a math student trying their best to write bad poetry. Writing with good grammar is already enough. Skip the poetry, and put your key point about being a good A-Level student up front instead. Are you an exception to this rule? Probably not. Unless you're applying for English Literature, or get paid for your writing, any attempt at poetic language will get a huge dose of side-eye.
5. Do repeat yourself
You want to make your key points of excellence over and over again (that is - you're a good student for this course), so that someone reading any section of your application will totally get it. This means repeating your key points - probably your most recent academic results and successes, even if you've said that elsewhere in your application. Not your GCSE grades, though, we just don't care that much. Do repeat yourself - even if the university asks you not to. Do repeat yourself. Say again (in another way) how you're a great student for this course.
6. Write your thoughts about one relevant book (post-graduates get one research paper)
You want to pick one relevant book, ideally from a course reading list, and read it! Use one paragraph of your statement to give a little depth about this one book, talk about what you learned and what you found surprising. This works best if it's genuine, so do pick one that you've read, or pick one from a list and get reading. You might be curious to read the whole list if you're really interested in the course, just saying. Don't write this about a second book! You gotta show that you read, but the rest of the space is needed to tell us more about you - so don't turn your personal statement into a literature review.
7. Use extra-curriculars to show teamwork and leadership
Sports and activity clubs are great to talk about, towards the end of your Personal Statement. Take about one paragraph for this. Working together in a team or a club shows teamwork. Starting a club or being involved in a new project or new direction shows leadership. These make great evidence for any kind of application, even if they're not directly connected to your course. You might also get lucky and hit a personal connection with the person reading about you. Definitely worth it.
8. Use the word "I"
It's often understood that scientists and mathematicians and other academics should do their work with no ego: that is, no sense of self. Scientists recognise that they work as a team, building on what others have done before them. Academic literature expects "we" and not "I". There's an ideal that we work for the good of humanity, not for our own recognition. It's beautiful, really. And, it's bad here. I want to hear about you personally - you're supposed to be telling me why *you* are a good student for this course. Therefore, you must use the word "I". Lots of "I". "I did this", "I did that". I promise you should use the word "I".
9. Follow George Orwell's Six Rules for Writing
Some more tips to build confidence in your own writing - these rules will improve your readability. The more readable, the better. Simplified, George Orwell's Six Rules demand that you cut! Cut every single word that doesn't add any meaning or value to your writing. In your first drafts, just write as much as you like in your own style - in fact, write way too many words, if you want. Get all your ideas down onto the page. In later drafts, use Orwell's rules to help you juice down what you've written into the most valuable and meaningful information. Even if you're already under the word count, cutting more words will make your text more readable, and a hypothetically-bored admissions tutor will be grateful. Examples:
"And, additionally, I studied Economics A-Level..." - you can cut the word "additionally" without changing the meaning - so cut it. Then, "And" gets cut as well.
"I first developed a passion for medicine when my best friend broke his arm in the primary school playground..." - doesn't tell us anything about you as a student or your ability to do this course, so it doesn't add value: cut the whole thing.
"My teacher, who I respect, told me to read the book 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell, and I was so fascinated by this experience that it completely changed my view-point regarding Sociology as a subject. I learned that..." - cut! cut! cut! Instead, be concise and direct: "'Animal Farm' by Orwell taught me that..." - (probably) keep!
10. Show, don't tell (mostly)
"Show, don't tell" is a principle of writing that you should show what you mean rather than say it directly - by always giving evidence. Gather together as many different types of evidence as you can. Anyone can say they are a "keen and motivated maths student who studies outside of class", but saying instead that you got "Gold in the UKMT Maths Challenge" is much more convincing - the evidence speaks for itself. If you give evidence, the reader will draw their own conclusions. Maybe they will even make stronger conclusions than the ones you thought of. In a Personal Statement, it's appropriate to "tell" sometimes - by claiming things directly - but try to focus as much as possible on "show": give your evidence.
BONUS TIP - Ask many people to read your final draft; pay attention to anything said by two people Everybody will have an opinion about your writing. But, not everybody has a good or useful opinion. If you ask two people to give you advice on something you've written, they might even give you exactly opposite advice. Confusing. So, if two or more people (independently) tell you the same piece of advice, take that as a strong signal to take action. If only one person tells you, and you're not sure? You can safely ignore them.
ANOTHER BONUS TIP - Write your key academic achievements first and last Remember that a lazy reader might only read the first line, or the last line, so you once again need to say directly that you are a great student. I like to see a short-and-cheesy last paragraph, to remind the reader that you're first-and-foremost a keen-and-good student. You're allowed to use one cliché in the essay, at the very end: "I'm looking forward to the opportunity to study Fractal Galaxies at Sunnydale University".
Do you want some personal help with your university applications? I do that as part of my tutoring work! Write to me at [email protected] and we can arrange a pack of sessions.
Are you a student who's been tasked with writing a math essay? Don't fret! While math may seem like an abstract and daunting subject, it's actually full of fascinating concepts waiting to be explored. In this article, we'll delve into some exciting math essay ideas that will not only pique your interest but also impress your teachers. So grab your pens and calculators, and let's dive into the world of mathematics!
Have you ever wondered why sunflowers, pinecones, and even galaxies exhibit a mesmerizing spiral pattern? It's all thanks to the Fibonacci sequence! Explore the origin, properties, and real-world applications of this remarkable mathematical sequence. Discuss how it manifests in nature, art, and even financial markets. Unveil the hidden beauty behind these numbers and show how they shape the world around us.
Did you know that music and mathematics go hand in hand? Dive into the relationship between these two seemingly unrelated fields and develop your writing skills . Explore the connection between harmonics, frequencies, and mathematical ratios. Analyze how musical scales are constructed and why certain combinations of notes create pleasant melodies while others may sound dissonant. Explore the fascinating world where numbers and melodies intertwine.
Architects have been using mathematical principles for centuries to create awe-inspiring structures. Explore the geometric concepts that underpin iconic architectural designs. From the symmetry of the Parthenon to the intricate tessellations in Islamic art, mathematics plays a crucial role in creating visually stunning buildings. Discuss the mathematical principles architects employ and how they enhance the functionality and aesthetics of their designs.
Step into the mesmerizing world of fractals, where infinite complexity arises from simple patterns. Did you know that the famous Mandelbrot set , a classic example of a fractal, has been studied extensively and generated using computers? In fact, it is estimated that the Mandelbrot set requires billions of calculations to generate just a single image! This showcases the computational power and mathematical precision involved in exploring the beauty of fractal geometry.
Explore the beauty and intricacy of fractal geometry, from the famous Mandelbrot set to the Sierpinski triangle. Discuss the self-similarity and infinite iteration that define fractals and how they can be found in natural phenomena such as coastlines, clouds, and even in the structure of our lungs. Examine how fractal mathematics is applied in computer graphics, art, and the study of chaotic systems. Let the captivating world of fractals unfold before your eyes.
Game theory isn't just about playing games; it's a powerful tool used in various fields, from economics to biology. Dive into the world of strategic decision-making and explore how game theory helps us understand human behavior and predict outcomes. Discuss in your essay classic games like The Prisoner's Dilemma and examine how mathematical models can shed light on complex social interactions. Explore the cutting-edge applications of game theory in diverse fields, such as cybersecurity and evolutionary biology. If you still have difficulties choosing an idea for a math essay, find a reliable expert online. Ask them to write me an essay or provide any other academic assistance with your math assignments.
While writing an essay, explore the fascinating world of chaos theory and how small changes can lead to big consequences. Discuss the famous Butterfly Effect and how it exemplifies the sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Delve into the mathematical principles behind chaotic systems and their applications in weather forecasting, population dynamics, and cryptography. Unravel the hidden order within apparent randomness and showcase the far-reaching implications of chaos theory.
In an increasingly digital world, cryptography plays a vital role in ensuring secure communication and data protection. Did you know that the global cybersecurity market is projected to reach a staggering $248.26 billion by 2023? This statistic emphasizes the growing importance of cryptography in safeguarding sensitive information.
Explore the mathematical foundations of cryptography and how it allows for the creation of unbreakable codes and encryption algorithms. Discuss the concepts of prime numbers, modular arithmetic, and public-key cryptography. Delve into the fascinating history of cryptography, from ancient times to modern-day encryption methods. In your essay, highlight the importance of mathematics in safeguarding sensitive information and the ongoing challenges faced by cryptographers.
Writing a math essay doesn't have to be a daunting task. By choosing a captivating topic and exploring the various mathematical concepts, you can turn your essay into a fascinating journey of discovery. Whether you're uncovering the beauty of the Fibonacci sequence, exploring the mathematical underpinnings of music, or delving into the game theory revolution, there's a world of possibilities waiting to be explored. So embrace the power of mathematics and let your creativity shine through your words!
Remember, these are just a few math essay ideas to get you started. Feel free to explore other mathematical concepts that ignite your curiosity. The world of mathematics is vast, and each concept has its own unique story to tell. So go ahead, unleash your inner mathematician, and embark on an exciting journey through the captivating realm of mathematical ideas!
Tobi Columb, a math expert, is a dedicated educator and explorer. He is deeply fascinated by the infinite possibilities of mathematics. Tobi's mission is to equip his students with the tools needed to excel in the realm of numbers. He also advocates for the benefits of a gluten-free lifestyle for students and people of all ages. Join Tobi on his transformative journey of mathematical mastery and holistic well-being.
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Extracurriculars.
Math majors are a diverse bunch. Pure math majors wrestle with mathematical theories and concepts to create elegant proofs. Applied math majors take the concepts learned in the classroom and apply them to real-world situations, in sectors across a wide range of industries.
Potential math majors have several options for their specific field of study, as “math” can mean anything from pure math to statistics to computer science.
If you’re interested in earning a math degree, but unsure which math major to choose, keep reading for insight into the various majors and career paths certain degrees can set you on.
Aside from the obvious skills developed in earning a math degree—such as an understanding of numbers, equations, and methodology—the study of math also nurtures other important skill sets that are applicable to a broad spectrum of fields. Critical and analytical thought top the list of skills that math majors possess, as do problem solving and quantitative reasoning. Cumulatively, these skills allow math majors to form and manipulate complex ideas, construct logical arguments, and take apart illogical ones.
Students who enjoyed (and were successful in) high school math classes are good candidates to become math majors in college. This is particularly true for students who took high-level and advanced placement math courses. Math majors in college typically possess an affinity for problem solving, and are not deterred when answers don’t appear easily—a willingness to wrestle through challenging questions is a must.
Math majors will study a wide breadth of mathematical topics, as most math programs have undergraduates take classes in everything from algebra to calculus to geometry. Much of this coursework occurs over a series of classes in these fields, with each one building on the previous class. Math is not a solitary field; the most successful students are team players, good communicators, and willing to work within a team or with TAs and professors to solve tricky problems and concepts.
While there is the general math major, there are several other types of majors that might be offered under the math department. These degrees allow students to follow specific interests and prepare them for the unique needs of the fields they hope to enter.
This list includes some of the most common specialties offered in math departments, including applied math, pure math, statistics, and computer science. We won’t be covering majors like Finance, Physics, or Economics, as these often are offered through other departments.
A degree in applied mathematics is a common course for students hoping to pursue careers in engineering, science, and computers, as it provides students with the functional knowledge necessary to apply mathematical ideas and techniques to problems. Many applied mathematics programs are designed for flexibility, allowing individuals to shape their coursework toward their areas of interest. Computer savviness is required of applied mathematics majors since computational methods and application of algorithms are key components of coursework.
Applied mathematics majors can expect to take classes such as:
Because of the flexible nature of applied mathematics, a degree in the field can lead to a career in a wide range of industries, while also laying the foundation for many students to further their education in graduate programs.
Common careers for applied mathematics degree holders include:
Students studying pure mathematics develop an understanding of the concepts and structures that underlie all mathematics. Over the course of their study, they will work in mathematical fields such as algebra, analysis, and geometry, along with developing core competencies such as problem solving, critical thinking, and modeling.
Pure mathematics majors can expect to take classes such as:
The problem-solving and analytical skills possessed by those holding a degree in pure mathematics opens doors in many industries. Common fields to find pure mathematics degree holders in are:
Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.
Students graduating with degrees in computer science have the ability to solve complex problems using computer-based tools, such as software and artificial intelligence. Computer science students are required to use a solid base of math skills to form probabilities and create statistical models. All types of personalities are attracted to the field of computer science—some are excited by the possibility of long days in the lab developing new algorithms, while others are drawn to the idea of working as a team on projects, like developing autonomous driving cars.
Computer science majors can expect to take classes such as:
Computer science is not only a rewarding major, it’s also one of the most financially beneficial—in 2017, CBS ranked it the most lucrative college major . Some jobs that are typically filled by computer science majors include:
At the heart of quantitative reasoning there is statistics—students studying statistics in college learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data. Additionally, students learn how to effectively communicate and present data-based arguments and conclusions. Possessing an in-demand skill set, students graduating with a degree in statistics will find opportunities in all sectors, from government to business and industry to universities and research labs.
Common coursework for statistic majors includes classes such as:
Because statistics has a huge amount of practical applications, there are a multitude of career paths available to holders of a degree in statistics. Common careers include:
Be sure to also check out these posts:
The 10 Easiest and 10 Hardest Majors
Easiest and Hardest Engineering Majors
Easiest and Hardest Science Majors
Luckily for high school students interested in becoming a math major in college, you don’t need a statistics degree to know your chances of acceptance at your dream school. Our free chancing engine can tell you your odds of admission at over 500 colleges. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to put this powerful tool to work for you.
Planning your essay
Writing your introduction
Structuring your essay
Structuring your dissertation
University essays differ from school essays in that they are less concerned with what you know and more concerned with how you construct an argument to answer the question. This means that the starting point for writing a strong essay is to first unpick the question and to then use this to plan your essay before you start putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).
A really good starting point for you are these short, downloadable Tips for Successful Essay Writing and Answering the Question resources. Both resources will help you to plan your essay, as well as giving you guidance on how to distinguish between different sorts of essay questions.
You may find it helpful to watch this seven-minute video on six tips for essay writing which outlines how to interpret essay questions, as well as giving advice on planning and structuring your writing:
Different disciplines will have different expectations for essay structure and you should always refer to your Faculty or Department student handbook or course Canvas site for more specific guidance.
However, broadly speaking, all essays share the following features:
Essays need an introduction to establish and focus the parameters of the discussion that will follow. You may find it helpful to divide the introduction into areas to demonstrate your breadth and engagement with the essay question. You might define specific terms in the introduction to show your engagement with the essay question; for example, ‘This is a large topic which has been variously discussed by many scientists and commentators. The principal tension is between the views of X and Y who define the main issues as…’ Breadth might be demonstrated by showing the range of viewpoints from which the essay question could be considered; for example, ‘A variety of factors including economic, social and political, influence A and B. This essay will focus on the social and economic aspects, with particular emphasis on…..’
Watch this two-minute video to learn more about how to plan and structure an introduction:
The main body of the essay should elaborate on the issues raised in the introduction and develop an argument(s) that answers the question. It should consist of a number of self-contained paragraphs each of which makes a specific point and provides some form of evidence to support the argument being made. Remember that a clear argument requires that each paragraph explicitly relates back to the essay question or the developing argument.
If you are writing an essay for a science subject you may need to consider additional areas, such as how to present data or diagrams. This five-minute video gives you some advice on how to approach your reading list, planning which information to include in your answer and how to write for your scientific audience – the video is available here:
A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.
Short videos to support your essay writing skills
There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:
Extended essays and dissertations
Longer pieces of writing like extended essays and dissertations may seem like quite a challenge from your regular essay writing. The important point is to start with a plan and to focus on what the question is asking. A PDF providing further guidance on planning Humanities and Social Science dissertations is available to download.
Planning your time effectively
Try not to leave the writing until close to your deadline, instead start as soon as you have some ideas to put down onto paper. Your early drafts may never end up in the final work, but the work of committing your ideas to paper helps to formulate not only your ideas, but the method of structuring your writing to read well and conclude firmly.
Although many students and tutors will say that the introduction is often written last, it is a good idea to begin to think about what will go into it early on. For example, the first draft of your introduction should set out your argument, the information you have, and your methods, and it should give a structure to the chapters and sections you will write. Your introduction will probably change as time goes on but it will stand as a guide to your entire extended essay or dissertation and it will help you to keep focused.
The structure of extended essays or dissertations will vary depending on the question and discipline, but may include some or all of the following:
The main body of your extended essay or dissertation will probably include your methodology, the results of research, and your argument(s) based on your findings.
The conclusion is to summarise the value your research has added to the topic, and any further lines of research you would undertake given more time or resources.
Tips on writing longer pieces of work
Approaching each chapter of a dissertation as a shorter essay can make the task of writing a dissertation seem less overwhelming. Each chapter will have an introduction, a main body where the argument is developed and substantiated with evidence, and a conclusion to tie things together. Unlike in a regular essay, chapter conclusions may also introduce the chapter that will follow, indicating how the chapters are connected to one another and how the argument will develop through your dissertation.
For further guidance, watch this two-minute video on writing longer pieces of work .
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Why should you study maths at college, what jobs can you get, and how hard is it to get a place.
Mathematics graduates have advanced numerical skills, including statistics, probability, algorithms, economics and data analysis. Many graduates pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and analytics.
Some common careers for mathematics graduates include:
In education systems across the globe, from primary to higher education learning institutions, there is one constant subject, a language universally spoken: mathematics.
A basic definition of mathematics (or maths, or math, depending where you are in the world) is that it is an education in numeric sciences, using a range of different approaches including algebra, calculus and basic arithmetic. While mathematics is a key element of subjects ranging from economics to physics, maths as a university subject often focuses on understanding and testing theories in mathematical and scientific discourse - or"pure mathematics".
Mathematicians can come to both an understanding of the universe’s building blocks in fields such as quantum mechanics, and have the chance to be educated in fascinating theorems and abstract concepts, which teach students a number of applicable skills that are transferable across a number of professional fields.
Best universities for physics, chemistry and maths degrees Best universities in the US for physical science degrees Best universities in the UK for physical science degrees Best universities in Australia for physical science degrees Best universities for physical science degrees in Canada
Within a maths degree, a student may expect to find a higher level of contact hours in the first year of study, as professors work with students to ensure an understanding of the core modules and concepts being discussed in lectures and seminars.
A typical course for a first year undergraduate will be an introduction to abstract algebra, as well as fields such as non-linear differential equations. Later years in the degree will see a greater level of freedom as students will pick from a wider selection of modules and explore in greater depth the areas of mathematics that appeal to them.
Maths degrees are increasingly becoming more digital, interlinking with computer science through modules such as symbolic computation and automated theorem proving.
Maths is also an ideal joint honours subject, as its teachings can be a foundation for study in computer science, engineering and statistics among others. For an undergraduate course, a typical course length would be three years, though this may be four in countries such as the United States, or if the course includes a year abroad study or a sandwich work placement.
Maths is not a subject that can be taken up at university, and will be taught on the assumption that students will have a concrete understanding of basic concepts in maths and applied mathematics before beginning a course.
Universities typically accept students who have done well in maths at school and further education level before applying. Universities will look at aptitude in related school subjects such as the traditional sciences (such as chemistry).
It is also important that language and writing skills are not neglected, as many courses will include lengthy essay assignments.
What can you do with an architecture degree? What can you do with a design degree? What can you do with an art degree? What can you do with a medicine degree? What can you do with a biology degree? What can you do with a veterinary science degree? What can you do with a chemical engineering degree? What can you do with a business degree?
All kinds of employers will value the data analysis skills and the innovative, original thinking that can be taught in a maths degree.
Dionne O'Brien studied mathematics at the University of Cambridge , where she specialised in abstract algebra and and graph theory. "I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do after I left university but I had decided against going into research. This meant it was unlikely I would be using the abstract maths I was specialising in in my future career," she says.
"What I liked about studying mathematics was the feeling of understanding then solving puzzles. I wanted a job that would give me that same feeling, but where I would also get to interact with lots of different people," she adds.
Now, Dionne works as a technical consultant for the application building platform Appian. The role requires a mixture of communication and teamwork skills and the ability to understand technical problems and come up with technical solutions.
"Both sides of my job have parallels with solving a problem in mathematics; it takes time to understand and map out what the client wants, then you have to work out the neatest, most efficient way to create that with the tools available. One of the most useful skills I learnt at university is the ability to persist with new concepts, that initially seemed complex, until I understood them," she adds.
There are many career options available for maths graduates in including investment analysts, tax advisors, economists, data analysts, teachers and many others.
In a position such as an actuary or chartered accountant, a mathematics degree is only a first step, as qualifications for these professions require years of further training and examination.
Maths is also a subject closely interlinked to statistical analysis. This presents job opportunities in social research such as the compilation of survey and polling data, as well as in scientific studies in fields such as geography and medical statistics. While this work can be a source of full time employment following a bachelor’s degree, many institutes also offer postdoctoral positions as a research fellow or equivalent.
There is also a clear pathway from the computer based skills learned in a mathematics degree to an IT or software development based career. Many video games programmers come from a maths background, combining creativity with technical aptitude to develop products in one of the fastest growing industries today. Security agencies will also employ a team of trained mathematicians, who will be using some of the most powerful computers in the world to develop cryptography and internet security.
Among the most well-known people ever to take a maths degree is Albert Einstein, who at the age of 17 was already on a mathematics teaching programme at ETH Zurich .
Among many other notable maths pioneers is Emmy Noether, who studied the subject at Erlangen University and went on to make seminal contributions to physics and abstract algebra.
A maths degree can also be a springboard to entrepreneurial success, such as Sergey Brin who studied at the Stanford University .
Other famous mathematicians include model Cindy Crawford, who studied the subject at Northwestern University and former professional wrestler and star of The A Team, Mr. T, majored in the subject at Prairie View A&M University .
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Whether or not you capitalize words can determine the meaning you convey through your writing. While there are several capitalization rules across topics, as a student , you’ll probably often write about academic subjects, so we’ve put together a guide to help you decide when to capitalize subjects.
Determining whether to capitalize a subject comes down to whether you’re using it as a common or proper noun.
When you’re writing in general terms, academic subjects don’t need capitalization because they’re common nouns , which aren’t specific to any person, place, or thing:
She was really looking forward to taking math next semester because it was her favorite subject.
Are you ready for our engineering test on Friday?
This includes all core academic subjects, like math, science, history, and art, as well as more specialized subjects, like psychology , engineering, education , exercise science, or law .
This rule doesn’t apply to language subjects, which are always capitalized because they’re proper nouns , which refer to a person, place, or thing:
He took a Spanish class to help him when he traveled abroad during the summer break.
She took Conversational French 101 but still couldn’t speak any of the language.
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Similarly, once you start writing about specific courses or degrees, the subjects are capitalized because they’re proper nouns:
She was really looking forward to taking Calculus 1 next semester because math was her favorite subject.
The last class I have to take before graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is Statistics in Psychology .
It’s also helpful to know that degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, etc.) follow the same rules, as they’re only capitalized when they refer to a specific degree.
When writing, it helps to think about how specific you want your message to be. As you can see, we only had to capitalize subjects when we specifically identified them.
If you’d like to make sure you’re properly capitalizing words, we have expert editors who can help make sure your writing is clear and error-free! You can learn more by submitting a free trial document .
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In iOS 18, Apple has added a powerful new feature to your iPhone's Calculator app: Math Notes. This integration between Calculator and Notes offers a versatile tool for all your calculation needs. It's particularly handy for splitting bills, calculating group expenses, or working through more complex mathematical problems.
Here's how you can start using Math Notes in the Calculator app in iOS 18:
You're not limited to accessing Math Notes through the Calculator app – you can also use the feature directly within the Notes app using any new or existing note.
If you need to switch back to the standard calculator while using Math Notes, simply tap the calculator icon again and choose either Basic or Scientific mode.
You can in fact get Math Notes results almost anywhere in the operating system. If you type an equation into search, for example, you'll get a result, and the same goes for apps like Messages.
In iPadOS 18, Math Notes works in the same way, but there is an added bonus - you can use an Apple Pencil. Once you start a Math Note from the Calculator app or the Notes app, you can write your equations by hand and have them solved in the exact same way.
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level a lot of mathematics involves writing down a sequence of equations, a number or function appears at the bottom of the page and you get a tick or a cross depending on whether you are right or wrong. This is not the way mathematics is written at university. Writing mathematics involves putting together a coherent argument.
Perhaps try: Watching films about maths or mathematics (the most famous examples are. Getting into a podcast about maths (Oxford University has one called. Remember to Keep note of the things you read, watch, and experience that inspire you as you do them; this will help make writing the statement easier.
Mathematics Personal Statement Example 1. I have always been fascinated by my mathematical studies and, having a flair for the subject, there was never any doubt that I would choose mathematics as a degree. It is a pivotal subject on which so many others depend (such as physics and chemistry)...
What else to include in your maths personal statement. Your extra-curricular activities: tutors want to know about your sporting, cultural, or community involvement, or anything else you do outside your studies that demonstrates drive, commitment, enthusiasm, and your potential to excel. What you'll contribute: uni isn't just about studying ...
Good writing is a process of successive approximations.You should not expect your first draft to be perfect. You will find that when you review your writing, you will see ways to shorten an argument, or say something in a better way. This is the part of the writing process that will help clarify your own thinking as well.
One of the first things that a Mathematics undergraduate will tell a prospective student is that maths at university is entirely different to what you studied at school. Below we've outlined some of the key features of a maths degree and tips on preparing. Typically students studying maths in high school are taught the method for a particular ...
questions: Why study mathematics? or: What topics do we study in uni-versity mathematics? Occasionally, the notes consider the question: Why do we do mathematics the way we do? but the emphasis is on How? not Why? Consequently, the notes have some of the style of a manual, and they will not make the most exciting of reads. You are therefore ...
Scroll down this page to find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study mathematics and related courses at university. Plus, over on The Uni Guide, we've also got advice from universities on what they want to see in a maths personal statement. Among the tips shared by these admissions experts: focus on how ...
Using "I" in a reflective paper is generally appropriate, and for other types of writing, "we" may be used occasionally. Writing in mathematics should be careful of tense. When describing facts, use present tense (facts are true). When describing experiments or methods, use past tense (experiments were conducted).
Focus on yourself. Your personal statement should focus on your motivations for wanting to study a subject, and why you in particular would make a good student. "Focus on yourself, rather than singing the praises of your subject," says James. "I'll have a good third of personal statements include some variation on 'mathematics is the ...
And, right now, it's University applications season! Read on, for my 10 tips on how to write an excellent Personal Statement or application essay… I work with students on applications for undergraduate degrees in math and math-related subjects (also Computer Science, Finance, Economics, Data Science, Psychology, Medicine).
One write way to student success in mathematics; Problem-solving. Writing an original essay is like trying to solve a mathematics problem. There is no script to follow; it must be created by simultaneously determining one's goals and figuring out how to achieve them. In both essay writing and mathematical problem-solving, getting stuck is ...
The Cambridge mathematics course offers you lectures in almost all areas of mathematics, from abstract logic to theo-retical physics, quantum information to differential geometry, mathematical biology to financial mathematics, and allows you to specialise in many different fields. The fourth year of our mathematics course (called Part III)
1. You've enjoyed math so far. Perhaps the most obvious, though commonly overlooked, reason you'd want to major in math is simply if you like it. You've probably encountered this subject throughout your life, whether in the form of basic counting, algebraic equations, or even an AP Calculus class.
Discuss in your essay classic games like The Prisoner's Dilemma and examine how mathematical models can shed light on complex social interactions. Explore the cutting-edge applications of game theory in diverse fields, such as cybersecurity and evolutionary biology. If you still have difficulties choosing an idea for a math essay, find a ...
Over the course of their study, they will work in mathematical fields such as algebra, analysis, and geometry, along with developing core competencies such as problem solving, critical thinking, and modeling. Pure mathematics majors can expect to take classes such as: Discrete Mathematics. Differential equations.
A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.. Short videos to support your essay writing skills. There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing ...
between mathematics and music, or topics in the history of mathematics, mathematical extended essays must have substantial mathematical content. You may o er one but not both of the mathematical and other mathematical options. You may o er both an extended essay option in your third year and a dissertation in your fourth year, if you so wish.
Mathematics graduates have advanced numerical skills, including statistics, probability, algorithms, economics and data analysis. Many graduates pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and analytics. Some common careers for mathematics graduates include: Accountant. Computer scientist.
Experts say a math degree is helpful for obtaining the following types of jobs. However, it should be noted that there are other occupations that math grads may pursue besides these: Actuary ...
Nope. However, you will have to write some form of document during your degree (for example, during my first year every student had to write around 8 pages of their chosen topic, which had to include theorems, proofs, lemmas and definitions). okay great thankyou!
Learn how to write expressions with variables and constants from word problems or real-life situations. Khan Academy offers free, interactive math lessons.
This includes all core academic subjects, like math, science, history, and art, as well as more specialized subjects, like psychology, engineering, education, exercise science, or law. This rule doesn't apply to language subjects, which are always capitalized because they're proper nouns, which refer to a person, place, or thing:
If you need to switch back to the standard calculator while using Math Notes, simply tap the calculator icon again and choose either Basic or Scientific mode. You can in fact get Math Notes ...