Best Reference Handbook in Math for Undergraduate Students

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The discussion centers on finding the best reference handbook for mathematics, particularly for students who need a portable resource for formulas and functions. The CRC Standard Mathematical Tables and Formulae (31st edition) is frequently recommended, with users noting its long-standing utility. However, some find it lacking in certain areas. Alternatives mentioned include "Mathematical Methods for Physicists" by Arfken and Weber, which is favored by graduate physics students, and Bronstein's Handbook, which is also considered a solid option. Alan Jeffrey's handbook is highlighted as an excellent choice, praised for its organization and comprehensive content, making it suitable for those facing restrictions on annotated materials during exams. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for a reliable, accessible math reference that covers a wide range of topics without being overly specialized.
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What is the best reference handbook in math?

I am an undergraduate math student.
I need a handbook in case something skips my mind like a function or formulas ... In the huge field of math that happens a lot.

I need a handbook because I find it hard to carry my library around. and math courses are so connected to every where.
 
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Hello all,

I am a graduate Physics student. I have strong math background. However, I started to forget some formulas, equations and so on because I am more focused on experimental physics.

I am looking for a book in math that I can you as a handbook. What do you think about Mathematical Methods for Physicists by Arfken and Weber. I heard that Bronstein's Handbook is good too.

Also, I don't what to pay a lot for a book that I will be using occasionally.

Thank you, Valentyn
 
I'd like to put in a plug for Alan Jeffrey's handbook: ISBN: 0123742889

In the past I've used both 1) the CRC (30th edition) and 2) Korn and Korn... neither of which are perfect. I found the CRC didn't have everything I needed, while Korn and Korn is somewhat dated and poorly organized, (though it contains everything). As a result, I have been using the CRC primarily for tests, preparation, etc. However...

My physics department recently adopted new rules concerning our qualifying exams that do not allow us to annotate opur math reference in any way (this eliminated my CRC). Also, the new rules state that the reference we are allowed on the exam can not contain any physics specific info, no matter how trivial (this eliminates Korn and Korn). As a result I've had to find a new math table.

Luckily, Jeffrey's book is pretty much the best of both worlds. It's a better math reference than either of the other two, the organization is excellent, and it only contains math. I'm very glad I found this book. Pretty much all the stuff I had added to the CRC is already included.
 
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