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Advice from Former Students for Abstract Algebra I

Math 171, Harvey Mudd College
Prof. Michael Orrison

• "Do your homework! This course is fast-paced and very interesting, but you have to do the problems to make sure you understand the material."


• "Do not under any circumstance skip a homework! It makes it that much harder to keep up later. Always make a good attempt on each problem. It really pays off in the end."


• "Start your homework way early."


• "Its helpful to spread the work out over the week. Look at all the problems the first night. Attempt them the next night. Try them again on the third night, and then get help if you need it."


• "Take notes and read the book."


• "Keep a running compilation/summary of terms and results proved (including on the homework). There is a lot of material and it builds up quickly so you have to work hard to stay on top of it."


• "Do the rewrites and take an active role in making sure you understand the homework."


• "Make use of rewrites. They're not only worth time spent for the points you get back, but for helping you understand the material."


• "If you're totally confused it's never too late to ask for help; don't be embarrassed by what you don't know, because you'll only fall further behind if you don't ask questions."


• "Rewrites are your friends. So is Prof. O."