The transition from lower division to upper division mathematics courses can be quite daunting even to a very experienced student. Unlike other subjects, the difference between lower and upper division courses in mathematics can be quite overwhelming; the two main culprits being writing proofs and abstract concepts. In this course we will address these issues head-on. In particular, we will learn how to write proofs while developing good mathematical style, while teaching students how to work with each other on more difficult problems. We will also give students more familiarity with the mathematical objects appearing in Math 104 and Math 113.

MUSA 74 is a 2-unit DeCal which is intended for students who have no familiarity with writing proofs, and aren't sure if they're prepared enough for upper-division classes. In particular, we strongly recommend that the class is taken alongside Math 53, 54, or 55. We officially assume no prerequisites other than a little calculus (at the level of Math 1A), though we will also appeal to Math 53, 54, and 55 for a few examples. In order to ease the transition, we plan to focus on more of the abstract concepts found in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations. We will delve into these concepts further by focusing on the proofs that arise when constructing these ideas. By the time you complete this course, you will be comfortable with writing proofs at the level required by the core upper-division sequence of Math 110, Math 113, Math 104, and Math 185.

We have homework every week, which takes a few hours and is graded for completeness and correctness. There are no exams. Students are required to attend lecture on Mondays and receive participation points for participating in discussion on Fridays, so in order to pass the course, students must attend class.For more details, including exact point allotment, check out our course website: https://musa.berkeley.edu/musa74.html

Course Structure:
Monday 10am-11:30am Lecture (must attend), 11:30am-12pm Optional Homework Review
Friday 10am-11am Discussion (must attend), 11am-12pm Optional Homework Party

If you are unable to make the Optional Homework Review or Party, you will still be able to enroll in the course and your grade won't be affected. If you can't make the mandatory portion of the course (lecture, discussion) and you are still interested in participating in the course please fill out the enrollment application form and let us know about your time conflict. You still may be able to enroll or at the very least you may be able to audit the course.

We will have a first-come, first-served enrollment policy, pending exceptional cases. We still have room in the course as of Monday, February 3rd, so if you would like to add, please fill out the enrollment form AND email musa74decal@gmail.com.