Hardest Math Course in College

For all those math enthusiasts out there, what has been the hardest math course in college that you've taken or heard of? I'm trying to mentally prepare myself for the challenge, so any insight would be greatly appreciated!

The difficulty of a math course can highly vary depending on many factors such as the professor, the university, and to a large extent, one's strengths and weaknesses. But there are some courses frequently mentioned as being particularly challenging.

Real Analysis often tops that list. Real Analysis is often the first course where math students are required to write rigorous proofs, which can be an arduous process if you're not used to it. Concepts such as sequences, series, continuity, differentiation, and integration are revisited, but with a much higher level of rigor than in Calculus.

Another course frequently mentioned is Abstract Algebra, which covers topics such as groups, rings, and fields. The abstract nature of these concepts means that there's little connection with the 'real world,' making it sometimes tricky to grasp the concepts intuitively.

Lastly, Topology, which studies the properties of space that are preserved under continuous transformations, is often found to be difficult due to its highly abstract concepts and the new intuitive ideas you will need to learn.

Remember, difficulty is subjective and what some people find difficult, others might find relatively easy, and vice-versa. Arming yourself with solid mathematical maturity, especially in writing proof, will give you the best preparation possible. One approach could be to read ahead over the summer to familiarize yourself with upcoming course materials. Geography and deadlines permitting, consider trying to choose professors known for their clear lectures and supportive teaching styles.