Getting Started

Creating a simple model starts by identifying the key parts of a problem and making some assumptions to keep things manageable.

Making Assumptions

Assumptions are the choices you make to simplify reality. For example, ignoring air resistance when modeling a falling object makes the math easier.

Common Types of Simple Models

• Linear Models: Assume a straight-line relationship between variables.
• Proportional Models: When one quantity changes, another changes by a constant factor.

Steps to Build

1. Pick the important variables.
2. Decide how they are related.
3. Write down a mathematical expression or equation.

Keep It Simple

Start with the most basic model and add complexity later as needed.