30-day Topological Quantum challenge

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers around a 30-day challenge to study Steve Simon's "TopoBook," a comprehensive 355-page textbook on topological quantum theory. The initiator expresses a background in undergraduate physics and acknowledges the difficulty of thoroughly understanding the material within the time frame. They propose a daily update format to share insights and challenges encountered while studying chapters 1-7 of the book. The discussion encourages participation and comments from others interested in the challenge.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of undergraduate physics concepts
  • Familiarity with topological quantum theory
  • Ability to read and comprehend dense academic texts
  • Time management skills for structured study
NEXT STEPS
  • Read and analyze Steve Simon's "TopoBook" chapters 1-7
  • Explore supplementary resources on topological quantum theory
  • Join or create study groups for collaborative learning
  • Document daily reflections on complex topics encountered
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those interested in quantum theory, educators seeking teaching resources, and anyone looking to enhance their understanding of topological concepts in a structured manner.

Replusz
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Hey everyone,
This is more of a motivational thread, and of course if anyone wants to join in, please do! Any comments are welcome. It's also fine if no one comments.
Maybe don't remove the thread though please. I hope this might be useful later on for others as motivation.

So the challenge is to get through Steve Simon's TopoBook (http://www-thphys.physics.ox.ac.uk/people/SteveSimon and http://www-thphys.physics.ox.ac.uk/people/SteveSimon/topological2019/TopoBook-Feb10.pdf) in the next 30 days. I have some knowledge of undergrad Physics, so it should be doable. I am in exam term though, so I don't want to rush it - 30 days seems a lot.
I will post every day, or every few days about where I am in the book and what the most interesting things were, or what puzzled me. Feel free to drop comments or join me for this challenge.
 
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Why do you think you can go through a 355 page dense textbook in 30 days and come out with anything other than a surface level understanding? A good challenge would be chapters 1-7 in that book in 30 days, and even that is pushing it in my opinion!

Either way, good luck!
 
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romsofia said:
Why do you think you can go through a 355 page dense textbook in 30 days and come out with anything other than a surface level understanding? A good challenge would be chapters 1-7 in that book in 30 days, and even that is pushing it in my opinion!

Either way, good luck!
Thank you!
:)

At University this counts as one course, assuming 3-4 courses a term, one has 2-3 weeks for it. However I do have some other stuff to do, so I am giving it 3x the time.
Thanks again! :)
 

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