Prerequisites and Self-Assessment

This course is designed for mathematics students with varying levels of computational experience. Use this self-assessment to determine your starting point.

Quick Self-Assessment

🖥️ Computer Skills Assessment

Check all that apply to you:

Basic Computer Use

  • I can navigate folders and files on my computer using a graphical interface

  • I know how to install software on my computer

  • I’m comfortable using a web browser and email

Command Line Experience

  • I have used a terminal or command prompt before

  • I know basic commands like cd, ls, mkdir

  • I can navigate directories using the command line

Programming Background

  • I have written programs in any language (Python, MATLAB, R, etc.)

  • I understand concepts like variables, functions, and loops

  • I have worked with mathematical software packages

Version Control

  • I know what version control is

  • I have used Git or similar tools before

  • I have collaborated on code or documents using version control

Based on your self-assessment:

🟢 Start with Level 1: Foundations

If you checked 0-3 boxes above

You’ll benefit from starting with the foundational modules:

  • Linux Essentials for Mathematics Students

  • Git Basics for Mathematical Research

  • VS Code Setup and Basic Usage

  • Introduction to Project Management

Estimated time: 4-6 weeks

🟡 Start with Level 2: Intermediate

If you checked 4-7 boxes above

You can skip some basics and focus on:

  • Advanced Git workflows

  • Container basics

  • Project management for research

  • Collaborative development

Estimated time: 3-4 weeks

🔴 Advanced Level Entry

If you checked 8+ boxes above

You may be ready for advanced topics:

  • HPC and containerization

  • CI/CD for scientific computing

  • Advanced automation workflows

Estimated time: 2-3 weeks

Mathematical Background Assumptions

This course assumes you have:

✅ Mathematics Prerequisites

  • Undergraduate mathematics degree or equivalent

  • Familiarity with mathematical notation and concepts

  • Experience with mathematical problem-solving

✅ Computational Mathematics (helpful but not required)

  • Basic understanding of numerical methods

  • Experience with mathematical software (MATLAB, Mathematica, SageMath, etc.)

  • Interest in computational approaches to mathematical problems

What You’ll Need

Required Software

  • A computer with administrative privileges to install software

  • Internet connection for downloading tools and accessing online resources

  • Text editor (we’ll help you set up VS Code)

Recommended Hardware

  • At least 8GB RAM for container work

  • 20GB free disk space for software installation

  • Access to a Linux system (physical, virtual machine, or WSL on Windows)

Getting Help

If you’re unsure about your starting point:

  1. Try the Linux module first - it will quickly show if you need more basic preparation

  2. Ask on Slack - link to the course Slack workspace

  3. Consult with instructors during office hours

  4. Form study groups with other mathematics students

For Mathematics Students New to Programming:

Don’t worry if programming concepts seem foreign at first. The course is designed to introduce computational tools gradually, with mathematical applications as examples. Focus on understanding the concepts rather than memorizing commands.

Ready to Start?

Based on your self-assessment, proceed to:

Remember: You can always go back to earlier modules if you need to review foundational concepts!