Any good book to review abstract algebra?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for books to review abstract algebra, particularly for a junior math major seeking to reinforce understanding of topics covered in a year-long course. The focus includes finding resources that enhance problem-solving skills and provide good exercises or examples.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests Dummit and Foote as a superb reference for abstract algebra.
  • Another participant recommends Ian Stewart's Galois Theory as a great read.
  • A different viewpoint mentions that while Dummit and Foote is acceptable, it may be too lengthy for someone already familiar with the material, advocating for a book that offers a more advanced perspective.
  • Lang's Algebra is mentioned as potentially overwhelming due to its focus on new material rather than review.
  • Knapp's Basic Algebra is highlighted as a preferred choice for providing context and a broader perspective, although one participant notes difficulty in accessing it from their library.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the suitability of different textbooks, indicating that no consensus exists on a single best resource for reviewing abstract algebra.

Contextual Notes

Some participants emphasize the need for books that balance review with advanced perspectives, suggesting that personal preferences and learning styles may influence the choice of material.

Who May Find This Useful

Students in undergraduate mathematics programs, particularly those studying abstract algebra and seeking supplementary resources for review and problem-solving practice.

PieceOfPi
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Hi,

I am a junior and a math major, and I am almost done with my year-long abstract algebra sequence for undergraduates. While I found the materials interesting, I feel like I got lost at some places in this course, and I would like to review (or in some topics, relearn) the materials that I covered in this course over this summer. The textbook we used in this course was Abstract Algebra by Beachy/Blair, and topics we covered in this class include basics of groups, rings, fields, more on groups (including Sylow's theorem, solvable groups, etc.), and Galois Theory. I was wondering if there is another book that I might want to check out from the library to read over the summer to understand the materials better. I would also like to focus on becoming a better "problem solver," as I feel like this is a skill that I need to improve ASAP, so I am looking for a book with good exercises and/or interesting examples as well.

Let me know if you have any suggestion. Thanks.
 
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Dummit and Foote is a superb reference for Abstract Algebra. Additionally, Ian Stewart's Galois Theory is a great read.
 
Depends on what you mean by review. Dummit and Foote is ok, but is probably a bit longwinded if you already know all the stuff. In your position, I would prefer a book which takes a somewhat different, advanced perspective, to place the things you know in context and look at the bigger picture. Now, Lang's Algebra may be a bit too much (i.e. little review, lots of new stuff), but one of my favorites which fills this purpose perfectly is Knapp's Basic Algebra.
 
Sounds good. I will be checking out Dummit/Foote from the library soon. Somehow, my library system didn't have Knapp's Basic Algebra at convenient location, but I will try and get that too (Knapp's sounds interesting, as it seems to use a lot of linear algebra in his discussion). I'll take a look at Stewart too.

Thanks! And any other suggestion would be appreciated.
 

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