Number theory learning curve I am a software developer with a Bachelor's degree in IT. During my educational years I have never been even remotely interested in math and also believed that you have to be born with mathematical aptitude to understand it. In high school I was passing math by the skin of my teeth having studied exactly 0 hours. 
This past year something clicked in my head and I decided that I would teach myself math from the ground up, i.e. following the school progression all the way to college math. I read somewhere that number theory basically has no prerequisites other than some elementary arithmetic so I tried to self study that. Almost every problem or proof I have encountered was a big roadblock. I am not seeing anything implicit when someone writes "and therefore this" or "thus this", hence my stupid questions on this website. It also makes me think that I just might not be cut out for this. 
So I am seeking advice. Number theory in my country is taught in college so I think that there are prerequisites to number theory. I want to reach a certain above average level of mathematical proficiency(number theory being my main interest) and I am willing to put in the time. 
My question is do I keep trying to understand number theory without any other knowledge that I could have received in school or do I go from the bottom, self study until I am capable to think like a college student(if that is even possible) and then dive into number theory?
 A: I think terms "number theory" or even "elementary number theory" can be deceptive understatements, to the novice especially, of just how difficult some of the problems in these fields can be.  There are many topics and questions which can be stated in terms of basic arithmetic and algebra which are notoriously difficult!!! (Ever hear of Fermat's Last Theorem? )  So I would suggest the beginner on this path pay careful heed to just what he or she encounters and adjust their steps accordingly.  There are in fact plenty of facts in beginning number theory which are both delightful and accessible.  I mean, it's OK to work on proving the product of two odds is odd for awhile.  Just take it as it comes, and work at a simple enough level that you enjoy and enrich yourself.  
One parting shot:  you might seek out books to start that are written for those with a more casual interest, semi-popular treatments; local libraries are full of such.  And they are often easier to understand.  Best of luck with it.
