Best way to learn string theory?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best methods and resources for learning string theory, particularly in the context of string cosmology. Participants share their experiences and recommend various textbooks and approaches for both beginners and advanced learners.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a cosmologist/theoretical astrophysicist, expresses a desire to transition into string cosmology and seeks advice on effective learning methods.
  • Another participant recommends "A First Course in String Theory" by Zwiebach, noting it is suitable for undergraduates.
  • Some participants advocate for a combination of texts, specifically mentioning Tong and Green, Schwarz, Witten, while acknowledging Zwiebach's thoroughness but lengthiness.
  • There is a discussion about the differences between editions of Zwiebach's book, with one participant highlighting that the second edition includes supersymmetry (susy) and D=10, while earlier versions focus on D=26.
  • Another participant mentions that the new chapter in the second edition is brief and poorly written, suggesting that the difference may not be significant despite the addition of new content.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of understanding concepts like D-branes and T-duality in string theory, particularly for those interested in string cosmology, and suggests additional resources for both beginner and advanced studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of specific textbooks for learning string theory, but there are differing opinions on the effectiveness and content of various editions of these texts. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to learning string theory and the significance of the differences between book editions.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include varying levels of familiarity with string theory concepts among participants, and differing opinions on the quality and comprehensiveness of recommended texts.

CosmicDream
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I am a cosmologist/theoretical astrophysicist, and so far my research (all 2 years of it) has focused on quantum cosmology. However, I have become interested in string cosmology recently, and wish to do some work in that field. Obviously though, there is a minor problem with that idea. Learning String Theory. Does anyone have any ideas on the best methods of learning this theory?
 
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Zwiebach, A First Course in String Theory
This book is written for undergraduates, so I am sure that you will be able to read it and learn a lot from it.
 
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I like the combination of Tong + Green,Schwarz Witten. Zwiebach is excellent as a first exposure and contains many great treatments, but is also very lengthy.
 
haushofer said:
I like the combination of Tong + Green,Schwarz Witten. Zwiebach is excellent as a first exposure and contains many great treatments, but is also very lengthy.

Plus, not susy, just D=26.
 
arivero said:
Plus, not susy, just D=26.
The second edition of Zwiebach has susy and D=10.
 
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Demystifier said:
The second edition of Zwiebach has susy and D=10.

Good to know. It is a huge difference, IMO.
 
arivero said:
Good to know. It is a huge difference, IMO.
Yes, but the corresponding new chapter is only about 20 pages long, and not very well written. So the difference is not so huge. It looks as he added this chapter only because of the pressure of the peers.
 
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@CosmicDream , since you want to know about string cosmology mainly, you should keep in mind that string theory incorporates multiverse theory . You must have clear concepts about D branes and T duality (which you shall learn in studying string theory) as string theory is a theory of not only strings but also of extended objects called branes .

I suggest the books (for beginning) - Modern introduction to string theory and M theory by J.Schwarzs , K.Becker
A First course in string theory by Barton Zwebach

And For advanced study _
String theory vol 1&2 By J.Polchinski
Supersymmetry and String theory By Michael Dine
Developments in string theory By J.Maldacena
 

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