The Power of Going Back to the Basics: Why I Learned Algebra as an Adult

Since I started my journey as a student, one thing became very clear: you can’t build a skyscraper on a weak foundation. A lot of people, in the world of programming, engineering, or data science, tend to jump straight into the "advanced" topics: machine learning, quantum computing, data visualization. But in my case, I felt that before moving forward, I needed to focus on the most basic concepts: algebra. Not because I didn’t know it, but because up until that point, everything had been a mechanical process where I made myself believe I had "learned" it. This time, I wanted to internalize the knowledge. So, I decided to: Re-study quadratic equations, functions, and systems of equations as if I had never seen them before. Not underestimate the power of the basics: every fundamental concept you deeply understand saves you confusion when you reach more complex topics like linear algebra, calculus, or Galois theory. Practice consciously every day, not just solving exercises as homework, but asking myself, "Why does this work?" and "How does this connect with bigger topics?"

Apr 26, 2025 - 23:39

The Power of Going Back to the Basics: Why I Learned Algebra as an Adult

Since I started my journey as a student, one thing became very clear: you can’t build a skyscraper on a weak foundation.

A lot of people, in the world of programming, engineering, or data science, tend to jump straight into the "advanced" topics: machine learning, quantum computing, data visualization. But in my case, I felt that before moving forward, I needed to focus on the most basic concepts: algebra.

Not because I didn’t know it, but because up until that point, everything had been a mechanical process where I made myself believe I had "learned" it. This time, I wanted to internalize the knowledge.

So, I decided to:

Re-study quadratic equations, functions, and systems of equations as if I had never seen them before.

Not underestimate the power of the basics: every fundamental concept you deeply understand saves you confusion when you reach more complex topics like linear algebra, calculus, or Galois theory.

Practice consciously every day, not just solving exercises as homework, but asking myself, "Why does this work?" and "How does this connect with bigger topics?"