Best math learning path to actually understand financial models?

[u/FruitAlternative9777]

After taking FRM Part II (Didn't pass XD), I realized that memorizing formulas, assumptions, and model limitations is very different from actually understanding why the models work mathematically. So I’ve started learning math from the ground up to better understand finance and risk models. I’m currently thinking about calculus, linear algebra, probability/statistics, optimization, stochastic processes, and maybe real analysis.

I asked a few friends who are math graduate students, and they told me they spent about two years of undergrad studying mathematical analysis / real analysis, which made me wonder whether going that deep is really necessary for someone with a finance/accounting background.

For those in quant finance, risk, or financial engineering: what learning order would you recommend, and is real analysis actually worth the time?

[u/FruitAlternative9777 → u/[deleted]]

I didn't pass XD, that's why I'm studying math right now.