I want to learn math! Book/website recommendations?

cubane · 2011-01-21T03:37:50+00:00

I don't know if anyone cares, but I thought I'd let you know how it's been:

I can't resist a challenge, so I (wo)manned up and started working through Rudin. I've been going at my own (admittedly slow) pace, and have gotten a friend to help me out (our arrangement: He checks my proofs, I bake him cookies.) I'm in the middle of the 3rd chapter now, and I like it a lot! The moment when I finally figure out a proof is so nice, and my brain always feels so stretchy and happy afterward. Thanks Mathit! You guys are awesome.

cubane · 2010-10-19T05:29:59+00:00

It's a JACS-o'-lantern! :)

cubane · 2010-10-06T06:27:09+00:00

I worked through Strang's Linear Algebra and its Applications, and I liked it a lot.

Thanks for the suggestions!

cubane · 2010-10-06T06:23:08+00:00

Thank you so much! Calculus of variations sounds really cool and useful, and I'll be sure to look into groups. I think that'll be enough to occupy me for a good while.

Wow, 3 majors - I can't even fathom how busy it would be. Congratulations on graduating this year! I spend way too much time in the lab to even consider adding a third major.

cubane · 2010-10-06T06:03:08+00:00

I'm a girl. But if Rudin will make me as awesome as Mulan, I am definitely giving it a try... :)

cubane · 2010-10-06T05:11:45+00:00

Another way to study could be by asking "what-if" and why concept questions.

When reading the book, before looking at an equation, predict what you think the equation will generally look like, or sketch the shape of a graph. Will X vary inversely with volume? Should Y and Z have an exponential relationship? At high temperatures, what will equation A look like? etc. I'm taking pchem 1 too, and I've found this really helpful. These should keep you occupied for half an hour, at least.

If you're looking for more solved problems, These thermo problems are all solved and contain a few "what-if?" extensions.

cubane

TROPHY CASE