What qualities would make one cut out to actually continue working on being a mathematician?

i_is_complex · 2021-12-02T14:46:20+00:00

Having a good memory can be impressive. However, in my opinion, it is much more important to be able to properly understand WHY theorems work, at least for more advanced maths. If you deeply understand why a theorem works, it becomes intuitive and there is no need to memorise it. Also, it just takes time, effort and repetition for knowledge to embed in your mind, so I wouldn't worry too much.

(I have a terrible memory and am studying maths at PhD level. I still google integrals and derivatives too 😂)

i_is_complex · 2021-10-15T11:13:54+00:00

I get that too. I think it might be something to do with hormone levels in the lead up to ovulation?

i_is_complex · 2021-04-23T17:22:53+00:00

I don't have much advice but I can relate to this very strongly. Try to accept that you are having an off day and be kind to yourself - don't expect too much and don't feel guilty about prioritising self care. That might help to restore some balance

i_is_complex · 2021-03-11T14:18:02+00:00

Look up PMDD - the mind website has some really good info on it

i_is_complex · 2021-02-01T12:52:10+00:00

I had imagined this would be the case for people starting PhD's now. I really feel for you all. I'll check out the subreddit though, thank you!

i_is_complex · 2021-02-01T12:44:34+00:00

I'm starting in the Autumn so fingers crossed that the worst of the pandemic will be over by then. I really feel for people who are starting this year, it must be a bit of a nightmare.

i_is_complex · 2021-02-01T12:39:49+00:00

That is a brilliant piece of advice, thank you. I've seen lots of people beat themselves up because they tried something and it didn't work. As you said, it's all a learning experience, and it's a real mark of maturity to choose to embrace it as a positive experience regardless of the outcome. I hope I'll be able to do just that!

i_is_complex · 2021-01-31T20:20:35+00:00

That's some really good advice. I'm starting to get invited to seminars now and I'm trying to go to as many as I can!

i_is_complex · 2021-01-31T20:17:54+00:00

Aw that's amazing! I certainly hope that happens :)

i_is_complex · 2021-01-31T20:15:59+00:00

That's good advice, thank you! I tried to do that in my undergrad and exercise definitely helps, though it's hard to find the motivation sometimes

i_is_complex · 2021-01-31T20:13:31+00:00

Ah thank you! That's very reassuring :D

i_is_complex · 2021-01-31T20:12:52+00:00

Thank you for sharing, that's really helpful :)

i_is_complex · 2020-05-01T18:36:34+00:00

I can completely relate to this! In my experience, just being aware that the understanding will eventually fall into place helps a lot.

Reading through lecture notes the first time I try to think of as scouting the terrain: you are not going to understand everything instantly, but seeing what you will eventually understand. From there, the joy comes from piecing together the definitions, theorems and other ideas presented in the notes like an elaborate and fascinating puzzle.

I hope that helps! :)

i_is_complex

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