Should you take Further Maths?

Should you take further Maths?

Very often have I been approached my students who are in dilemma whether they should take further maths. I don't have any general opinion on this matter, for whether a student is capable for further maths is up to him to judge. Nevertheless, I would like to state some facts and clear some issues so that any prospective student of further maths of Cambridge A Levels Further Maths.

Further Maths is Tough

The first fact you must bear well in mind is that further maths is exponentially tougher than general Pure Maths. If you want to get satisfactory grades in Further Maths, you must atleast get a B or an A in general mathematics.

The syllabus of Further Maths covers and extends upon topics of Pure 1, Pure 3, Stats 1, Stats 2, Mechanics 1, Mechanics 2. Hence, if you are having any problems with any of these subjects, I would not recommend taking further mathematics. But if, you find these papers easy, Go Ahead!

Think about the time you have...

Since, further maths is more extensive than pure maths, a lot of schools start teaching further maths only in the second year after the completion of basic pure maths. Find out when does your school teaching further maths. If your school teaches further maths for two whole years, then you'll have ample time for preparation. However, if further maths is only taught after second year, then you'll need to be a very quick learner.

Managing your time...

As I said, further maths is tough. It will surely take the biggest chunk of your preparation time. Thus, taking further maths is not recommended if you already have problems with other subjects like chemistry.

It can be intimidating at first....

Beginning further maths can be intimidating. The class we had in the beginning of the term had shrunk to one third by the end. But, with some practice and patience, you can easily master it.

Yet.....

Nevertheless, time spent studying further maths is time well spent. Even if you plan not to sit for further maths exams, it will immensely support you in your basic pure maths. Trust me, once you start further maths, basic maths appears too juvenile.