Calculus textbooks with good sections on integration

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on recommendations for calculus textbooks that provide comprehensive coverage of integration techniques, particularly substitution methods. Key titles mentioned include "Inside Interesting Integrals" by Edward J. Nahin and "Irresistible Integrals" by George Boros, both praised for their effective treatment of integration concepts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding U-substitution and UV-substitution (integration by parts), linking these techniques to differentiation rules. Additionally, resources like OpenStax are suggested for free, accessible learning materials.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus concepts, including differentiation and integration.
  • Familiarity with U-substitution and UV-substitution (integration by parts).
  • Knowledge of logarithmic, trigonometric, and power functions.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions and apply calculus identities.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "Inside Interesting Integrals" by Edward J. Nahin for advanced integration techniques.
  • Study "Irresistible Integrals" by George Boros for additional practice and insights.
  • Review OpenStax calculus materials for foundational concepts and exercises.
  • Research the relationship between integration techniques and differentiation rules to strengthen understanding.
USEFUL FOR

Students self-studying calculus, educators seeking effective teaching resources, and anyone looking to improve their skills in integration techniques.

Santiago24
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Hi I'm having troubles with integration specially by substitution, I'm going to read a calculus textbook and i need recommendations of books with a good treatment on the different techniques of integration. I'd like a book with good exercises for self study and a exposure to integration of different functions like integrals involving logarithmic and trigonometric functions or integrals involving logarithmic and power functions.
 
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For one specifically on integration I guess you could try 'inside interesting integrals' by Nahin? My old maths teacher used to rave about that one a lot, although I didn't read the whole thing yet.
 
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You might have already realized this for yourself but in case you haven’t I’ll say it:

1) U-substitution is related to the chain rule of differentiation

2) UV-substitution (or integration by parts) is related to the product rule of differentiation

For UV-substitution there is a general rule of thumb for which function you want to make equal to ##u## in that order.

Log, Inverse Trig, Algebraic, Trig, Exponential.

1) and 2) might be regarded as trivial by some but if you don’t know them calculus becomes WAY more difficult.
 
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General Kenobi said:
For one specifically on integration I guess you could try 'inside interesting integrals' by Nahin? My old maths teacher used to rave about that one a lot, although I didn't read the whole thing yet.
I was looking on the internet and a lot of people recommend it and other book named "Irresistible Integrals" by George Boros, so i'll check it thanks.
 
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PhDeezNutz said:
You might have already realized this for yourself but in case you haven’t I’ll say it:

1) U-substitution is related to the chain rule of differentiation

2) UV-substitution (or integration by parts) is related to the product rule of differentiation

For UV-substitution there is a general rule of thumb for which function you want to make equal to ##u## in that order.

Log, Inverse Trig, Algebraic, Trig, Exponential.

1) and 2) might be regarded as trivial by some but if you don’t know them calculus becomes WAY more difficult.
Hi thanks for the information, my problem with the integration of trigonometric functions is that they use a lot of identities or formulas that i don't know where they come.
 
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What is your calculus background? You seem to be gravitating towards “how to solve hard integrals” but your statements seem more “how to address these weaknesses”
 
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caz said:
What is your calculus background? You seem to be gravitating towards “how to solve hard integrals” but your statements seem more “how to address these weaknesses”
Hi I'm self studying calculus with the Spivak book. Yes, i have problems with integration by substitution because when i have to replace for u i don't know how to make appear du.
 
  • #10
If u=f(x), du=f’(x)dx

You need to go through a calculus book for non-mathematicians. Given that you are getting theory from Spivak, there are probably sections you can glance through, but you should work every integration problem (most can be done in a couple of minutes). My openstax suggestion still stands or the first @micromass reference. If you live in a university town, you could get a cheap used copy of whatever they are using.
 
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  • #11
BTW, you do not need solutions for indefinite integrals. You can always take the derivative to check your work.
 
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