Good Algebra books for young physicit

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding suitable algebra books for a young aspiring theoretical physicist. Participants share recommendations and personal experiences regarding the effectiveness of various algebra resources, addressing the importance of mastering math for future studies in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to improve their math skills at home, specifically seeking algebra books that are not overly simplistic.
  • Another participant recommends a specific elementary algebra book, suggesting it as a good starting point before moving on to calculus.
  • A different participant suggests "College Algebra" by Cynthia Young, noting its comprehensive coverage and inclusion of advanced topics that may not be emphasized in standard school curricula.
  • Concerns are raised about the quality of the participant's current school math book, with one participant labeling it as "horrible" and advocating for English textbooks instead.
  • Another participant defends the school math book, arguing that it has been helpful despite criticisms, and points out that the effectiveness may depend on how teachers utilize the material.
  • There is a discussion about the concept of "plug and chug" methods in algebra, with differing opinions on their adequacy for learning the subject.
  • Participants inquire about the participant's location and their ability to access recommended books, indicating a need for resources that are available for free or at low cost.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of the school math book and the teaching methods associated with it. There is no consensus on the best approach to learning algebra, as some advocate for traditional methods while others emphasize the need for deeper understanding.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention challenges in accessing recommended books, particularly in relation to availability and cost. There are also references to the teaching quality in schools, which may influence the learning experience.

Who May Find This Useful

Young students interested in improving their algebra skills, particularly those aspiring to study physics or related fields, may find this discussion relevant.

Physic lover
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Hello everyone,
I am 17 years old now and my ambition for the future is to become a theoratical physicit .Many people including my family members told me it is very hard and need high level math and physics skills .
Thus,I have decided to improve my math skills at home and not only depend on the school to get my education because I noticed that it is not enough. I read some articals in the net about the steps to be a physicit and I found that the first step is to master math and the first broad part of math you need to study is Algebra ,I have search in the internet for good ALgebra books but appearantly they all look like books for those who have forgot a great deal of math (or maybe I didn't search well I won't lie) so I really need help to find algebra books that help me in my physics journey .
Thank in advance .
 
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I would buy this one used for not too much money, it looks very comprehensive and not simplified:

Cynthia Young - College Algebra

I know you aren't in college but that shouldn't matter; this book will cover everything you need to know from algebra until you learn subjects like calculus or linear algebra.

What I particularly like (I'll edit this sentence) is that it reaches beyond the standard topics to include things from college math that follow on from what one typically learns in school, for example absolute value inequalities which may not receive much attention in school but are used in analysis. I see it also has review questions and a practice test.

The use of colour may be distracting but the topics are good.
 
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thank you but I need more help please your forum supposed to be the best
 
What country are you in? Do you like the two books recommended so far?
 
verty said:
What country are you in? Do you like the two books recommended so far?

I am from ALgeria .One of the books I could not download it for free and now I am using my school math book to improve my math skills that's it
 
Physic lover said:
I am from ALgeria .One of the books I could not download it for free and now I am using my school math book to improve my math skills that's it

Don't use your math book it's horrible
 
theoristo said:
Don't use your math book it's horrible
No actually it's activities really did helped me a lot don't underestimate it .
 
Physic lover said:
No actually it's activities really did helped me a lot don't underestimate it .
No it's just a plug and chug book It teaches you the operation not the meaning behind thing and it's very inefficient at doing so look for any english textbook the diffrence is obviously giangantic.
 
  • #10
Plug and chug is fine for algebra, that's all you need to know. You'll be using it all later and learning more about it then.

For example, everyone knows how to divide but who can remember what the Chinese remainder theorem says?
 
  • #11
theoristo said:
No it's just a plug and chug book It teaches you the operation not the meaning behind thing and it's very inefficient at doing so look for any english textbook the diffrence is obviously giangantic.

Infact there are pages in the book which teaches you the meaning behind this like you said but it's just that yhe teachers don't use them with us, I noticed that the book is fine but the teachers are not well using it with the students . Plus they really inhance it, ots not like the old books . Whatever my goal is not to convince you, where can I get this english textbook ?
 

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