I use PowerPoint to edit all* videos (and hit 100k subs!)

Summary

In this Q&A video celebrating 100,000 subscribers, the creator shares insights into their math journey, their video-making process, and thoughts on math education. From using PowerPoint, GeoGebra, and Mathematica for animations, to transitioning from pure to applied math at Cambridge, they reflect on the challenges of studying mathematics and pursuing a PhD. The video also delves into their opinions on the math education system, favorite theorems, and advice for aspiring YouTubers. With humor and humility, they discuss their growth as a content creator and the importance of perseverance.

Takeaways

• 😀 The creator uses PowerPoint, GeoGebra, and Mathematica to make animations for their YouTube videos, often surprising viewers with the simplicity of the tools.
• 😀 They emphasize that while their video-making process may not be professional, it's effective for what they do, and they hope viewers don't judge them for using PowerPoint.
• 😀 Squarespace is highlighted as the sponsor, with the creator explaining how easy it is to build a professional-looking website using their platform, including embedding GeoGebra applets.
• 😀 The creator’s love for math began in 4th grade when they discovered a clever way to calculate the area of a shaded triangle in a square, which sparked their passion for the subject.
• 😀 The creator's educational journey took them from a love of pure math (group theory and geometry) to a growing interest in applied math and theoretical physics, particularly general relativity.
• 😀 The creator is currently studying at Cambridge and is in their fourth year, working towards a master’s degree, with a schedule that includes lectures and supervisions.
• 😀 They express a shift in focus from pure math to applied math over the course of their studies, especially as they became more interested in physics and cosmology.
• 😀 The creator has plans to pursue a PhD in math, with a specialization in early universe cosmology, which is more physics-oriented but still categorized as math at Cambridge.
• 😀 Regarding the math education system, they critique the focus on computation in pre-university math education, advocating for a deeper understanding of math's concepts rather than just rote calculation.
• 😀 The creator believes math should not be compulsory beyond basic levels, as higher-level math has limited practical applications for many people, leading to unnecessary frustration and dislike for the subject.
• 😀 The creator’s favorite theorems are Theorema Egregium and the Gauss-Bonnet theorem, both of which relate to differential geometry, with a focus on the beauty of the mathematics involved.
• 😀 They discuss the different definitions in math, such as variations in the Fourier transform, highlighting how convenience and context determine the choice of mathematical conventions.

Q & A

What software do you use to create the animations in your videos?

I use PowerPoint, GeoGebra, and Mathematica for creating animations. PowerPoint is used for most of the animations, including this one you're watching. GeoGebra is used for cleaner visuals and diagrams, and Mathematica is used for more complex animations like in my complex analysis video series.

Why do you feel embarrassed about using PowerPoint for your animations?

I was initially embarrassed because I thought people might judge me for using such a basic tool for something that many associate with professional video creation. I feared that others would expect a higher level of software or production quality.

How did you get started with your passion for math?

My love for math began in 4th grade when I solved a problem about the area of a shaded triangle involving squares. I discovered a clever solution, which sparked my interest in math. From there, I started exploring more math books and developed a deeper passion for the subject.

What is your opinion on the current math education system?

I have mixed feelings. In particular, I dislike how much focus is placed on computation in pre-university education. The general public often associates math with just performing calculations, which makes many people dislike the subject. I believe education should move away from compulsory advanced math for those who won't use it in their daily lives.

What is your take on the difference between pure and applied math?

Originally, I was more focused on pure math, as seen in my love for group theory and differential geometry during my first and second years at university. However, as I progressed, I started leaning toward applied math and theoretical physics, especially after taking courses like General Relativity.

Do you plan to pursue a PhD in math, and if so, in what field?

Yes, I do plan to pursue a PhD in math, focusing on early universe cosmology. Although this field leans more toward physics, Cambridge considers it to be part of mathematics, and that's the direction I’m headed in.

What is your favorite math theorem, and why?

My favorite theorem is Theorema Egregium, a fundamental result in differential geometry discovered by Gauss. It’s remarkable because it demonstrates how curvature is an intrinsic property of surfaces, independent of the way the surface is embedded in space. My second favorite is the Gauss-Bonnet theorem, which relates the geometry of a surface to its topology in a beautiful and unexpected way.

How do different fields of math use different definitions for similar concepts?

Mathematical definitions often vary between fields for convenience. For example, the Fourier transform has different conventions depending on the area of application. The choice of constants in the definition can make certain calculations simpler in specific contexts, even though they might introduce minor drawbacks in others.

What advice would you give to someone starting an educational YouTube channel?

Just start! Don’t stress over making the first video perfect because most people's first videos are not great. It takes time to improve, so experiment with different approaches. Most importantly, don’t give up. I uploaded videos for 10 months with minimal progress before seeing real growth.

What are your thoughts on the use of automation in university admissions?

University admissions often rely on automated systems for initial screening, which results in a focus on grades and computation-based assessments. This system can be limiting, especially for math, where deeper understanding and creativity might be undervalued. I believe this is a major obstacle in improving the math education system.