Before approaching this topic, students should:
Have a solid understanding of postulates 1-5 of quantum mechanics. Exposure to the sixth postulate is helpful as well.
Know that commuting operators have the same basis for resulting eigenvectors.
Know how to manipulate the polar and rectangular form of complex numbers.
Understand the difference between an overall phase and relative phase in quantum states.
Previous experience with the Schrodinger equation is helpful but not necessary.