Which Calculus/Real Analysis textbook is recommended for a deeper understanding?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on recommendations for Calculus and Real Analysis textbooks, specifically for those seeking a deeper understanding of the subject beyond standard AP Calculus BC. Users recommend "Calculus" by Michael Spivak and "Mathematical Analysis" by Tom Apostol as superior choices, emphasizing Spivak's comprehensive approach to calculus and rigorous problem sets. In contrast, "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Richard Courant is criticized for being too similar to standard curricula without providing significant depth. Additionally, "Analysis" by Klichin is suggested for its formalism, although it is noted to be dense and challenging.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with AP Calculus BC concepts
  • Understanding of mathematical proofs and formalism
  • Basic knowledge of continuity theorems and series
  • Exposure to classical calculus without topology
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "Calculus" by Michael Spivak for rigorous problem-solving techniques
  • Study "Mathematical Analysis" by Tom Apostol for a comprehensive understanding of analysis
  • Investigate "Analysis" by Klichin for advanced formalism in mathematics
  • Review additional resources on calculus proofs and problem-solving strategies
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics majors, students transitioning from AP Calculus to higher-level analysis, and anyone seeking a rigorous understanding of calculus concepts will benefit from this discussion.

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I have already gone through the standard AP Calculus BC curriculum with Stewart and was not fond of the book. I'm looking for an Calculus/Intro to Real Analysis book so I can get a better understanding of the subject. Apostol,Spivak and Courant stand out as the best books for this. Can anyone who has experience with one or more of these books give a recommendation. If you know of any other books that would be appropriate I'm still open to other choices.
 
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I don't know a lot about Spivak or Apostol, but I definitely don't recommend Courant.

Courant is basically the standard Calc BC from Steward, with less pictures, less applications, *slightly* more abstract and more dense. In terms of insights for a math major, Courant is probably too "easy" to give you a drastically different experience fromt he normal Calc BC, but too dense to be a nice review book.

I would go with a book like "Analysis" by Klichin, a book that probably resembles more to Spivak or Apostol. Be warned, this book is dense and very tough, but introduces a formalism and approach very valuable for math majors.
 
im using spivak and apostol right now as supplements to real analysis.

spivak is the best calculus book bar none. maybe apostol is a superior refrence, but spivak teaches you everything about calculus. he not only proves why results are true, but tells you how the the proofs are designed. my only gripe with spivak is his problems are extremely difficult. at the same time, his difficult problems ensure you walk away with a crystal clear view of how the theory of calculus works. but know what extreme difficulty means: it is very very frustrating, and it will take hours to do the problems.

its not really an intro to analysis text, its pure calculus. but some people call any kind of calculus with rigor real analysis. aside from some continuity theorems and stuff on series, and random problems, the text sticks pretty firmly to calculus as a whole. that means no topology is employed, and it is quite classical.
 

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