Calc 1 vs 2 vs 3: How do these classes compare?

Okay, so I'm planning out my math classes in high school, and I've got the option to take Calc 1, Calc 2, or Calc 3. Could someone offer some insight on the major differences between them and how they might affect my college applications?

Each of these calculus courses covers different material and builds on the concepts learned in the previous class. I'll provide an overview of the three courses and how they could impact your college applications.

Calc 1: This is the introductory calculus course that covers the fundamentals, including limits, continuity, and differentiability. You'll learn about derivatives, how to find them, and what they mean in various contexts. Typically, Calc 1 aligns with the AP Calculus AB curriculum or the first semester of college-level calculus.

Calc 2: Building on Calc 1, Calc 2 delves into integration and its applications. You'll study techniques of integration, improper integrals, infinite series, parametric equations, and polar coordinates. This course often aligns with the AP Calculus BC curriculum or the second semester of college-level calculus.

Calc 3: Sometimes referred to as Multivariable Calculus, Calc 3 extends the concepts learned in Calc 1 and Calc 2 to include vectors, vector-valued functions, partial derivatives, multiple integration, and vector calculus. This is an advanced math course often taken by students who have completed Calc 2 or AP Calculus BC.

Regarding college applications, completing higher-level math courses can demonstrate your strong academic abilities and mathematical aptitude. If you're planning to apply to STEM-related programs, taking advanced math classes like Calc 2 or Calc 3 can be beneficial, as they indicate your preparedness for college-level coursework in your chosen field.

However, remember that course rigor isn't the only factor in college applications – it's important to balance challenging courses with extracurriculars and other aspects of your application. The choice between Calc 1, 2, and 3 should depend on your interests, schedule, and academic goals. If Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available at your school, taking AP Calculus AB or BC could provide an additional opportunity to earn college credit or potentially place out of introductory calculus courses in college based on your AP exam scores.