Group Theory/Set Theory/Discrete Math books?

AI Thread Summary
A fourth-year mechanical engineering student expresses concerns about their weak mathematical foundation despite achieving perfect scores in college math courses. They have recently encountered challenges while self-studying linear algebra, particularly with unfamiliar concepts like sets, unions, and intersections. To address these gaps, they seek recommendations for introductory materials in Group Theory, Set Theory, and Discrete Math, emphasizing the need for resources that cater to someone with a limited theoretical background. Several book recommendations are provided, focusing on foundational topics in set theory and discrete mathematics, highlighting their accessibility and positive reviews for learners aiming to strengthen their understanding of essential mathematical concepts.
Saladsamurai
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:smile: Hello Merry Friends! Here is my situation:

I am a fourth-year mechanical engineering student. I am very interested in mathematics though. I feel like my mathematical foundation in quite weak though. I dropped out of high school long ago. And so, though I have maintained a perfect score in all of my college maths, there are many fundamental gaps that are missing.

I can do algebra and I can do trig and calculus. What I lack is a deep understanding of the fundamentals of math. I have recently been trying to teach myself linear algebra and have realized that I have never seen symbols like \in\text{ or }\cup\text{ or }\cap before. Words like "sets" and "union" and "intersection" I have to repeatedly look up on wiki.

It has been suggested that I look into some introductory Group Theory/Set Theory/Discrete Math books.

What do you recommend? Pretend that I am a early High School student and I have no theoretical background in math. I can only 'go through the motions' of basic algebra.

What do you suggest? Thanks! :smile:
 
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This one

https://www.amazon.com/dp/3540761780/?tag=pfamazon01-20

set-theory, proofs, complex numers, linear algebra, group theory, series, introduction to analysis. Exaples and solutions. Cheap, good reviews. Perfect for someone who wants to learn "real" math.

This one I can personally recommend, since I have learned the stuf from this one, does not contain as many topcs, but focus on Discrete mathematics:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/3540761772/?tag=pfamazon01-20

also this one might be of interest?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0071470387/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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