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Learn Number Theory

Properties of integers, primes, and modular arithmetic. A free, structured curriculum: 5 units · 20 lessons · self-paced.

Curriculum outline

Unit 1: Theory of Number Theory

Lesson 1.1: What Is Number Theory: Definitions and Scope

Lesson 1.2: Foundational Principles and Axioms

Lesson 1.3: Key Theorems and Laws

Lesson 1.4: How the Theory Was Developed

Unit 2: Core Methods and Approaches

Lesson 2.1: Standard Methods and When to Use Them

Lesson 2.2: Step-by-Step Problem-Solving Process

Lesson 2.3: Tools and Notation

Lesson 2.4: Choosing the Right Approach

Unit 3: Guided Practice

Lesson 3.1: Worked Examples: Simple Problems

Lesson 3.2: Worked Examples: Moderate Complexity

Lesson 3.3: Independent Practice Set

Lesson 3.4: Checking Your Work and Self-Assessment

Unit 4: Advanced Methods

Lesson 4.1: Advanced Techniques and Shortcuts

Lesson 4.2: Multi-Step and Compound Problems

Lesson 4.3: Proof-Based and Analytical Thinking

Lesson 4.4: Connecting Methods Across Topics

Unit 5: Applied Number Theory

Lesson 5.1: Number Theory in Real-World Contexts

Lesson 5.2: Modeling and Estimation

Lesson 5.3: Data Interpretation and Analysis

Lesson 5.4: Cross-Disciplinary Applications

Sample lesson preview

What Is Number Theory: Definitions and Scope

Understand what Number Theory is and why it matters.

Number Theory is best understood through its purpose: what problem does it solve, or what need does it address? Rather than starting with a textbook definition, think about when and why people encounter Number Theory in real life. Understanding the "why" first makes the technical details much easier to grasp. The simplest test of understanding: can you explain it in one sentence to someone who's never heard of it?