If you're studying commerce, economics, or social sciences at UBC, Math 104 is likely your first encounter with university-level calculus. It covers differential calculus—limits, derivatives, and optimization—but with applications tailored to business and social sciences: marginal cost, elasticity of demand, and revenue optimization. Don't be fooled by the "applications to commerce" label; Math 104 is still rigorous, conceptual, and challenging. It's calculus, just with different real-world contexts than physics or biology.
What is covered in UBC Math 104?
Math 104 introduces differential calculus with applications to commerce and social sciences. Topics include:
- Functions and models: Linear, exponential, logarithmic, and polynomial functions in business contexts
- Limits and continuity: Understanding behavior of economic functions as variables change
- Derivatives: Definition, differentiation rules (power, product, quotient, chain rule)
- Applications in commerce: Marginal analysis (cost, revenue, profit), elasticity of demand, and optimization
- Optimization problems: Finding maximum profit, minimum cost, and optimal production levels
- Exponential and logarithmic functions: Growth models, compound interest, and logarithmic differentiation
- Partial derivatives (introduction): Basic concepts for functions of multiple variables in economic models
Math 104 is typically followed by Math 105 (Integral Calculus for Commerce) and is required for many commerce, economics, and business-related programs at UBC.
Common challenges students face in Math 104
Economic context feels unfamiliar
You're not just learning derivatives—you're applying them to marginal cost, revenue functions, and elasticity. If you don't understand the economics, the math feels disconnected.
Optimization problems dominate
A huge portion of Math 104 is about finding optimal values: maximum profit, minimum average cost, optimal production. These problems require setting up equations correctly, taking derivatives, and interpreting results in business terms.
Word problems are everywhere
Exams are heavy on applied problems. You need to read a business scenario, extract the relevant variables, set up the appropriate function, differentiate, and solve—all while managing time pressure.
Conceptual questions
Exams don't just ask "find the derivative." They ask "What does the derivative represent economically?" and "Explain why the profit is maximized at this point." You need to understand concepts, not just compute answers.
How Learn4Less helps you succeed in Math 104
Our tutors understand both the calculus and the business applications, so we bridge the gap between math and economics.
Step-by-step problem solving
We guide you through marginal analysis, optimization, and elasticity problems from start to finish. You'll learn how to read business scenarios, identify the right approach, and solve efficiently.
Contextual understanding
We explain the economics behind the math. When you're working with cost functions, revenue optimization, or elasticity, you'll understand why the equations make sense—not just how to manipulate them.
Exam-focused strategies
We teach you how to interpret business questions, write clear economic explanations (which earn partial credit), and manage your time across problem sets.
Math 104 exam and midterm preparation
Math 104 typically includes two midterms and a final exam. Here's how we prepare you:
Practice with commerce applications
We focus on the types of problems that appear most often: marginal analysis, optimization in business contexts, and elasticity of demand.
Past exam walkthroughs
We work through previous years' exams so you know what to expect. You'll practice reading business scenarios, extracting key information, and solving efficiently.
Conceptual fluency
We drill you on explaining derivatives in economic terms: "What does this marginal cost represent?" and "How do you interpret this maximum value in business terms?" These questions appear on every exam.
Why choose Learn4Less for Math 104 tutoring?
First-year specialization
We focus on UBC's first-year math courses, including calculus for commerce and social sciences. Our tutors have guided hundreds of Math 104 students successfully.
Experience with UBC curricula
We know UBC's Math 104 syllabus, textbook, and exam formats. We tailor our sessions to what UBC professors emphasize: marginal analysis, optimization, and economic interpretations.
Flexible formats
Choose in-person tutoring near UBC or online sessions with screen sharing. Need help before a specific midterm? Book a targeted prep session. Want ongoing support? Weekly tutoring keeps you on track.
Video study packages
Prefer self-paced learning? Our video packages cover key Math 104 topics with business examples—perfect for reviewing before exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Math 104 and Math 100?
Math 104 is designed for commerce and social sciences students, with applications like marginal cost, revenue optimization, and elasticity of demand. Math 100 is for physical sciences and engineering, focusing on mechanics and physics applications. The core calculus is the same; the applications differ.
Can I take Math 100 instead of Math 104?
Usually, yes—check with your program. Math 100 is often accepted as equivalent to Math 104, but it's more physics-focused. If you're a commerce or economics major, Math 104's business applications will be more relevant and useful.
Do I need high school calculus to take Math 104?
Not necessarily. Math 104 assumes some familiarity with functions and algebra, but many students succeed without prior calculus. If you've never seen derivatives before, review exponential and logarithmic functions before the course starts.
Is Math 104 easier than Math 100?
No. Math 104 covers similar mathematical concepts but applies them in business and economic contexts. If you're not comfortable with economics, the word problems can feel harder than pure math. Neither course is "easy"—they're just aimed at different audiences.
When should I get a tutor for Math 104?
As soon as you feel confused or fall behind. The course moves quickly, and concepts build on each other. Many students wait until after the first midterm to seek help, but by then, catching up is much harder. Proactive tutoring from week one is the smartest strategy.