A book on tensors like Linear Algebra by Friedberg et al.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a book that effectively explains tensors, similar to how the book "Linear Algebra" by Friedberg, Insel, and Spence presents linear algebra concepts. The focus is on recommendations for resources that build a working knowledge of tensors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a book on tensors that mirrors the clarity of "Linear Algebra" by Friedberg et al.
  • Another participant suggests "A Student's Guide to Vectors and Tensors" by Daniel Fleisch, noting their positive experience with Fleisch's other works.
  • A different participant mentions having a good experience with "A Student's Guide to Lagrangians and Hamiltonians," indicating a preference for accessible texts.
  • Another recommendation is "Linear Algebra Done Wrong" by Sergei Treil, which includes a chapter on tensors and is available for free online.
  • Additionally, a participant suggests chapter 3 of "A First Course in General Relativity" by Bernard Schutz as an easier starting point for understanding tensors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants provide various recommendations without expressing disagreement, but there is no consensus on a single best resource.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations may depend on the reader's prior knowledge and specific interests in tensors, as well as the varying levels of complexity in the suggested texts.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in learning about tensors, particularly those who appreciate a structured and clear approach similar to introductory linear algebra texts.

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Hi, I am looking for a book that explains tensors and builds a working knowledge of tensors, like the book Linear Algebra by Friedberg Insel and Spence, which I thought explained things very well (if you haven't heard of it, its an intro. book on linear algebra). Thanks!
 
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You might find A Student's Guide to Vectors and Tensors, by Daniel Fleisch, helpful. I haven't read this book, but his other one on Maxwell's equations (in the same series) is great.
 
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Thanks for the suggestion! I actually have A Student's Guide to Lagrangians and Hamiltonians which is by a different author but is still really good
 
"Linear algebra done wrong" by Sergei Treil is an even better introduction to linear algebra. It has a chapter on tensors. And it's available for free online. http://www.math.brown.edu/~treil/papers/LADW/LADW.html

If you want something even easier to get you started, I recommend chapter 3 in "A first course in general relativity" by Bernard Schutz.
 

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