Beginner's Guide to String Theory: Best Books for the Cash-Strapped

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on finding affordable beginner-friendly books on string theory, specifically those that include mathematical concepts. Participants recommend Barton Zwiebach's "A First Course in String Theory" as a standard introductory textbook. Michio Kaku's works are noted for their engaging layman's approach, though his textbook is considered challenging. The suggestion to utilize local university libraries for access to these resources is also highlighted as a practical solution for budget-conscious learners.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts
  • Familiarity with mathematical principles, particularly group theory
  • Access to academic resources, such as university libraries
  • Interest in theoretical physics and string theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "A First Course in String Theory" by Barton Zwiebach
  • Explore Michio Kaku's introductory books on string theory
  • Investigate local university library membership options
  • Study foundational concepts in group theory relevant to string theory
USEFUL FOR

Students, aspiring physicists, and anyone interested in understanding string theory without a significant financial investment.

ElNino
Messages
30
Reaction score
0
Can anyone recommend a Beginners Guide kind of thing for string theory? Basically trying to get started off, what's the best book(s) for me to get? (Preferably cheaper ones, I am kind of cash strapped blown my physics books money for a while)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Are you looking for a layman's book or one with the mathematics in it?
 
One with the Mathematics in it please :)
 
Michio Kaku has some very enjoyable layman's reading on the subject, but the one textbook I have seen of his was extremely difficult to understand. I hope you know a lot of about group theory.
 
Try Zwiebach's "A First course in String Theory." I know nothing about string theory, but I gather this is a good introduction.

Edit: I didn't notice the money part: perhaps you could beg to join your local university's library?
 
Zweibach?? I am not too sure about this but I think I know someone who has this book. I know her well could probably "borrow" it ;-) Maybe I should go with the layman's reading at first and go with the Mathematics aspect once that is secure? think that's a better idea?
 

Similar threads

Admissions Statement of purpose critique request (high-energy theory PhD)
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Possible research directions for a beginner in TQFT
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
PhD Inquiry, Modified Gravity or String Theory
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Which courses should I cover to become involved in string theory?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Studying Should I start with a basic physics book without calculus?
  • · Replies 45 ·
2
Replies
45
Views
7K
Graduate Different symmetries or no symmetries in string theory?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Prerequisites for reading Superstring Theory Greene, Schwartz Witten
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
5K
Studying materials for basics physics: exercises, not theory
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Courses Is particle physics that important?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Graduate What is the Best Resource for Learning String Theory as a Side Project?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K