Should I Take Precalculus in College?
“Precalculus? Are you kidding me?” That’s what a lot of students think when they see it on their degree audit.
If you’re just trying to get through college with as little math as possible, you’re probably wondering: do I really have to take this?
This guide will help you figure it out—whether you’re trying to avoid Precalc, survive it, or find someone to do it for you.
📘 What Is Precalculus, Really?
Precalculus is the bridge between Algebra and Calculus. It usually includes topics like:
- Functions and their graphs
- Exponents and logarithms
- Polynomials and rational expressions
- Trigonometry
- Limits and basic intro-to-Calculus concepts (at some schools)
In other words, it’s Algebra on steroids—plus a mountain of trig identities your professor will expect you to memorize and apply under pressure.
🎓 Who *Has* to Take Precalculus in College?
Like it or not, Precalc is required for many majors, especially if you didn’t place directly into Calculus. You’ll most likely have to take it if you’re in:
- 🧪 Engineering
- 💻 Computer Science
- 📊 Business (depending on your school)
- 🔬 Physical or Biological Sciences
- 📐 Mathematics
If you’re in a STEM or business-heavy field, Precalculus isn’t optional—it’s your warm-up lap.
🛑 Who Might Be Able to Skip It?
If you’re a Liberal Arts or Nursing major—or just someone who hates math—there’s a good chance you can take something easier.
Ask your advisor about alternatives like Liberal Arts Math, MGF1106 (Math for General Education), or Introductory Statistics. These classes cover topics like logic, sets, or basic probability—not trig, functions, or graphing.
✅ Pro tip: These classes are usually accepted for non-STEM degrees and much easier to pass.
📉 Did You Score Low on the ALEKS Placement Test?
Many colleges use ALEKS to determine your math placement. If you didn’t review beforehand, you probably got slotted into Precalculus by default.
Here’s what you can do:
- 🧠 Retake the ALEKS placement test (some schools allow multiple attempts)
- 📚 Accept Precalc and power through it (with or without help)
- 🙋 Ask if you can take an alternative course (only some schools offer this)
Already enrolled in Precalc and struggling? Don’t wait until midterms to ask for help. Click here to get expert assistance today.
🔎 Decision Table: Should You Take Precalculus in College?
| Situation | Should You Take Precalc? |
|---|---|
| You’re a Business or STEM major | ✅ Yes, it’s usually required |
| Your placement score is too low for Calculus | ✅ Yes, Precalc is your next step |
| You’re a Liberal Arts or Nursing major | ❌ Probably not — ask about alternatives |
| You’re already enrolled and overwhelmed | ✅ Take it — but get help (like FMMC) |
| You want to test out of Precalc | ❓ Try the ALEKS Placement Test again |
💬 What If You’re Already Enrolled and Stuck?
Then it’s time to stop suffering and start outsourcing.
Finish My Math Class™ has helped thousands of students get through Precalculus using platforms like:
We offer:
- ✅ Full course takeovers
- ✅ Homework and quiz completion
- ✅ Proctored exam help (with expert strategies)
- ✅ Guaranteed A or B overall—or your money back
Click here to learn more about our Precalculus homework help services.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Precalculus required for college?
Only for certain majors. If you’re in STEM or Business, yes. If you’re in the arts, nursing, or social sciences, ask about easier math alternatives like Statistics or Liberal Arts Math.
What happens if I fail Precalculus?
You’ll likely have to retake it, which delays your graduation timeline. Many students hire Finish My Math Class to avoid this situation entirely.
Can I test out of Precalculus?
Yes—schools using ALEKS or other placement tools often allow you to place directly into Calculus or into a general education math course, depending on your score.
Is Precalc harder than Algebra?
Absolutely. Precalculus builds on College Algebra but adds trigonometry and advanced function analysis. It’s one of the most failed math courses in college.
🚀 Final Thoughts
So, should you take Precalculus in college?
✅ Yes, if your major requires it or you didn’t place into Calculus.
❌ No, if you can take a less painful course instead.
😫 But if you’re already stuck in Precalc and feel like it’s eating your life—there’s a better way.
Let Finish My Math Class take over your assignments, quizzes, or even your entire course. We’ll do the hard stuff so you can move on.