Math 184 is UBC's differential calculus course designed for students in social sciences and commerce programs who have no prior calculus experience. It covers the same core calculus concepts—limits, derivatives, and optimization—but with applications tailored to economics, business, and social sciences. Unlike Math 104 (which assumes high school calculus), Math 184 starts from the beginning, making it ideal if you didn't take calculus in high school but still need it for your program. It's calculus with a business focus, built for students who are new to the subject.
What is covered in UBC Math 184?
Math 184 introduces differential calculus with applications to social sciences and commerce. Topics include:
- Review of functions: Linear, exponential, logarithmic, and polynomial functions in business and economic contexts
- Limits and continuity: Understanding behavior of economic functions as variables change
- Derivatives: Definition using limits, interpretations as marginal values and rates of change
- Differentiation rules: Power, product, quotient, and chain rule, with thorough explanations
- Applications in commerce and social sciences: 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
- Implicit differentiation: Finding derivatives when functions aren't explicitly solved for y
Math 184 is typically followed by Math 105 (Integral Calculus for Commerce) and is designed for commerce, economics, and social sciences students with no prior calculus.
Common challenges students face in Math 184
Calculus is a new way of thinking
If you've only done algebra and basic functions, calculus introduces entirely new concepts. Understanding limits, derivatives, and marginal values requires a shift in how you think about math.
Economic context feels unfamiliar
You're learning derivatives while simultaneously applying them to marginal cost, revenue functions, and elasticity. If you're still building economic intuition, the applications can feel disconnected from the math.
Word problems dominate
Exams are heavy on applied problems: reading business scenarios, extracting variables, setting up functions, differentiating, and interpreting results—all under time pressure.
Pace is still university-level
Even though Math 184 assumes no prior calculus, it's still a university course. You're expected to keep up, do homework independently, and understand concepts deeply.
How Learn4Less helps you succeed in Math 184
Our tutors understand both the calculus and the business applications, so we bridge the gap between math and economics.
Step-by-step explanations
We break down complex concepts like limits, derivatives, and the chain rule into manageable pieces. You'll understand not just *what* to do, but *why* it works.
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.
Building confidence
If you're in Math 184 because you didn't take calculus in high school, we create a supportive environment where you can ask questions without judgment. Calculus is learnable, and you're capable of mastering it.
Math 184 exam and midterm preparation
Math 184 typically has 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.
Time management
Many students know the material but run out of time. We teach you how to allocate minutes wisely and how to maximize partial credit.
Why choose Learn4Less for Math 184 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 184 students successfully.
Experience with UBC curricula
We know UBC's Math 184 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 184 topics with business examples—perfect for reviewing before exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Math 184 and Math 104?
Math 184 assumes no prior calculus experience and builds foundations from scratch. Math 104 assumes you've taken high school calculus and moves faster. If you've never seen derivatives before, Math 184 is the right choice.
Can I take Math 184 if I took calculus in high school but struggled?
Yes. If you're not confident with calculus concepts, Math 184 gives you a chance to relearn the material properly with business applications. It's better to build strong foundations than to struggle through Math 104.
Does Math 184 count toward my degree requirements?
Yes, Math 184 is equivalent to Math 104 for most commerce and social sciences programs. Check with your specific faculty to confirm.
Is Math 184 slower than Math 104?
Yes, Math 184 takes more time to cover the same material because it assumes no prior calculus. But it's still university-level and requires consistent effort.
When should I get a tutor for Math 184?
As soon as you feel confused or fall behind. The course introduces many new concepts, and falling behind makes catching up much harder. Proactive tutoring from week one helps you build strong foundations early.