Group Theory/Set Theory/Discrete Math books?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around recommendations for introductory books on Group Theory, Set Theory, and Discrete Mathematics, particularly aimed at someone with a limited theoretical background in mathematics. The context includes the participant's self-assessment of their mathematical foundation and their desire to fill gaps in understanding fundamental concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a need for foundational mathematics resources, specifically mentioning a lack of familiarity with concepts such as sets, unions, and intersections.
  • Another participant recommends a specific book on set theory, providing a link for further exploration.
  • A different participant suggests a book that covers various topics including set theory, proofs, complex numbers, linear algebra, group theory, and discrete mathematics, highlighting its affordability and positive reviews.
  • Another recommendation includes a book focused on discrete mathematics, noted for its personal endorsement by the participant.
  • One participant suggests reading a particular book before tackling other mathematics texts, indicating its foundational importance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for introductory resources, but there are multiple competing recommendations without a consensus on which book is the best starting point.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations may depend on individual learning styles or specific areas of interest within mathematics, and the effectiveness of the suggested texts may vary based on the reader's background.

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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