According to a recent study by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, over 58% of Indian entrepreneurs come from science or engineering backgrounds. Many of them studied Maths or Physics during their school or college years. But can one subject truly influence someone’s journey as an entrepreneur?
Let’s explore the link between these two subjects and entrepreneurship.
Maths vs Physics
| Feature | Mathematics | Physics |
| Nature | Abstract, logical | Applied, concept-driven |
| Key Focus | Numbers, patterns, and problem-solving | Real-world systems, laws, experiments |
| Skills Developed | Logical thinking, analysis | Observation, reasoning, and technical view |
| Common in Courses | Engineering, Economics, Data Science | Engineering, Robotics, Electronics |
| Career Paths | Finance, IT, Analytics, Startups | Product Design, Tech Startups, R&D |
How Maths Helps Entrepreneurs
Mathematics is the basis of decision-making in business. It helps in planning, estimating, and analysing risks.
Why Maths Matters
- Quick calculations help with budgeting, forecasting, and pricing.
- Data reading supports business analytics and understanding trends.
- Logical steps improve structured thinking for business growth.
- Financial understanding is key for profit-loss, margins, and investments.
How Physics Helps Entrepreneurs
Physics teaches cause and effect. It helps people understand how things work.
Why Physics Matters
- Experiment-based thinking is useful for product development.
- Strong observation skills aid in identifying problems within systems.
- An innovative mindset helps in building new solutions and prototypes.
- Concept clarity is good for tech-based business ideas.
Also Read: SKILLS vs EXAMS
Which Subject Do Founders Prefer?
Here are some quick facts:
- 30% of unicorn startup founders in India studied engineering with a Maths base.
- 22% came from Physics or other science streams.
- Subjects don’t build startups, but they build skills that help.
Skills Entrepreneurs Need
| Skill | Maths Builds It | Physics Builds It |
| Problem-solving | ✅ | ✅ |
| Critical thinking | ✅ | ✅ |
| Communication | ❌ | ✅ (to explain ideas) |
| Financial understanding | ✅ | ❌ |
| Product design thinking | ❌ | ✅ |
No subject alone creates an entrepreneur. But subjects like Maths and Physics build the right habits—thinking clearly, solving problems, and taking logical steps. A Maths student may be strong in finance and planning. A Physics student may be better at building systems and solving technical problems. Both are useful in the startup world. So, instead of asking “Which subject is better?” ask “What skill can I learn from it?” That makes all the difference.
