What Should I Study to Prepare for a Probabilistic Methods Course?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on preparing for a course titled "Probabilistic Methods in Computer Science," using the textbook "The Probabilistic Method" by Alon and Spencer. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding elementary calculus concepts, including differentiation, limits, l'Hôpital's rule, and simple integrals. Additionally, they highlight the need to familiarize oneself with non-calculus notation and proofs, as some participants find certain symbols challenging. The course outline suggests that a solid grasp of these foundational topics is essential for success in the course.

PREREQUISITES
  • Elementary calculus, including differentiation and limits
  • Understanding of l'Hôpital's rule
  • Familiarity with simple integrals
  • Basic set theory and mathematical notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study "The Probabilistic Method" by Alon and Spencer for foundational concepts
  • Review advanced calculus topics to strengthen understanding of calculus principles
  • Research mathematical notation used in proofs, focusing on symbols like large V
  • Explore online resources or courses on set theory to reinforce foundational knowledge
USEFUL FOR

Students auditing or taking courses in probabilistic methods, mathematicians seeking to refresh their calculus skills, and anyone interested in understanding mathematical proofs and notation.

PeteyCoco
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So I'm auditing a course titled Probabilistic Methods in Computer Science this fall and I want to know what kinds of things I should read to help me through it. The book that is being used is The Probabilistic Method by Alon and Spencer. The math I have is mostly calculus with some set theory and analysis, but it doesn't seem to be of much use here. I don't expect to understand everything, and the prof knows that, but I want to make a good attempt at it. What can I do to catch myself up? The outline is here: http://users.encs.concordia.ca/~chvatal/691D/
 
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"Elementary calculus (finding extrema by differentiation, limits, l'Hôpital's rule, simple integrals)."

How are you with this?
 
Jorriss said:
"Elementary calculus (finding extrema by differentiation, limits, l'Hôpital's rule, simple integrals)."

How are you with this?

I'm good with that, I've finished advanced cal this past semester. It's the non-calc stuff that gives me pause; some of the notation in the proofs requires googling (look at page 4 of this http://www.amazon.com/dp/0470170204/?tag=pfamazon01-20 . What does the large V mean?)
 

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