Calculus book recommendation (CompSci)

[nwb]

Hi there,

I was looking for something to level-up my knowledge from basic differentiation/integration (I'm a Computer Scientist by degree) to things like multivariable, vector calc and other more advanced concepts.

The problem is that working through definition-theorem-proof i.e. rigorous texts is rather time consuming for me, so I'm looking for something that will give me a working knowledge with a good level of depth discussing the concepts.

Many thanks,

nick

 

[ivan77]

The later chapters of James Stewart's Early Transcendentals (I'm going through 6th ed) is a solid book. Easy to understand and not too rigorous.
http://www.stewartcalculus.com/media/8_home.php

take a look at the drop down in the web links section as it outlines what chapters are in the book. The first 7-8 chapters are single variable, but it may be good to have to refresh your memory.
You can supplement your learning with the MIT open course ware videos for calculus 2:
http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/mathematics/18-02-multivariable-calculus-fall-2007/video-lectures/

Although I have not used this book, the MIT calc 2 course uses:

Edwards, Henry C., and David E. Penney. Multivariable Calculus. 6th ed. Lebanon, IN: Prentice Hall, 2002. ISBN: 9780130339676.

Ivan

 

[abiyo]

Edward and Penney 6th edition is a very good textbook. It has got quite a good balance of concept without being too rigorous.

You can get one of
the Schaum's outlines on calculus too. It has many problems with solutions.

Good luck.

 

[eumyang]

I have to disagree about Stewart. I find the prose obtuse and rambling, and the design/layout rather dense. I'm amazed that so many colleges use it. This is coming from a teacher who's tutored in Calculus, not from a student. My preference is Larson -- I think he explains things better, and the text is well-organized and presented. Just MHO.


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