Brilliant
Interactive, visual courses in math, science, and computer science built around active problem-solving
- Best for
- Interactive, visual courses in math, science, and computer science built around active problem-solving
- Pricing
- Free Trial
- Free plan
- No
- Platforms
- Web, iOS, Android
- Category
- Math
What is Brilliant?
Brilliant offers interactive, visual courses in math, science, and computer science that emphasize learning by actively solving problems rather than watching passive video lectures. Its adaptive problem sets adjust to how a student is performing, and course paths are structured to build intuition step by step. A handful of lessons are free to try, with a paid subscription (student discounts available) needed for full course access.
How students can use it
- Building foundational intuition for a math or CS course through interactive problems
- Supplementing a stats or logic class with hands-on practice
- Preparing for a CS course by working through algorithmic thinking lessons
Key features
- Interactive visual lessons
- Adaptive problem sets
- Courses spanning math, CS, data science, and science
- Progress tracking
Pros and cons
Pros
- Learn-by-doing approach rather than passive video
- Strong for building intuition in math and logic
- Well-structured course paths
Cons
- Full access requires a subscription
- Limited humanities/language subject coverage since it focuses on STEM
Is Brilliant free?
No. There is a free trial, but it expires — this is not a free tool.
A limited number of lessons are free to try; full course access requires a paid subscription (student discounts are available).
How to use it well
Do the interactive problems actively rather than skimming, since the format is built around productive struggle
Use it alongside your coursework to reinforce concepts rather than as a replacement for class material
Limitations to know about
Requires a paid subscription for full access
Narrower subject range than a general tutoring tool
Alternatives to Brilliant
A computational engine that solves maths problems and shows worked steps.
Scanning a handwritten or printed math problem with your phone camera to get step-by-step solutions
Quick answers across basic math through calculus and statistics, typed directly into a solver
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