Studying calculus is one of our objectives, but there are other things that I want you to learn and become better at after completing this course: reading and writing. Mathematics is not all about numbers, equations, or strange greek letters and symbols.

Why does every math teacher tell you to "show your work"?
When you work on problems and write your solutions, always keep in mind that you have *readers* - mainly your classmates and instructor (= me).

• Is your writing readable and organized so that your *readers* want to read on?
  
  
  • Did you staple the pages together?
  • Are your pieces of paper clean-cut?
  • Did you write up the solutions in the order of problem numbers?
  • Did you mark your final answer?
  
  
• Did you add enough details so that your *readers* can follow your (mathematical) argument without guessing?
  
  
  • Does each of your lines follow the previous line?
  • Isn't there a sudden jump between your lines that makes it difficult for your *readers* to understand your reasoning?
  
  You should be able to convince your *readers* that what you claim is correct.
  (Also, you want to convince *me* that you know and understand what we're doing in class!)

A good writer = a good reader.
We will also study how to read (and judge) mathematical statements and arguments.

• Can you follow the *writer's* argument (assuming it is well written)?
  
  
  • Do you think the *writer* gives you enough details and explanation?
  • Was it easy to follow?
    If not, can you suggest a way to make it more readable?
  
  
• If you are not convinced of the *writer's* claim, can you explain why you are not sold?
  
  
  
  • Can you find where the argument starts becoming unclear / fails?
  • Can you suggest a way to turn it into a better / correct solution?
  
  

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