Hate Linear Algebra? Advice for Applied Math?

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thehollow89 said:
Elementary Linear Algebra: Applications Version, 9th ed., by H. Anton and C. Rorres

Odd, that's an easy book that doesn't delve into true theory much, if at all.
 
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Linear Algebra is most often the first abstract class an undergrad takes, I think that tends to be why most people have a difficult time with it. If you plan on doing more math than just first and second year calculus than understanding linear algebra and developing your abstract mathematical skills is essential.
 
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thehollow89 said:
The prof is a nazi. He'll give us practice tests that make us underestimate the test and guide us in the wrong direction. He's even said he's going to kill us with the final. The kind of proofs he asks on the tests make me feel like I need to know every property and identity. It's annoying.

He doesn't put on putnam problems does he?
 
AlandoAlf said:
Hello,

Why you hate linear algebra ? i love linear algebra its my favorite subject.

I agree. I took every linear algebra course our school had, voluntarily. If I could have majored in just linear algebra, I would have. :-p
 
Chris11 said:
He doesn't put on putnam problems does he?

nah...I wouldn't think he's THAT evil. Probably IMO problems.
 
LA is as important as Caculus, and may be even more useful when you learning QM. It's usual to calculate eigenvalues and diagonalise matrixes when resolving QM problems. However, not everything learned in LA courses is very needed, though it won't be bad to be familiar with all of them. Fairly speaking LA is difficult so you should find some collections of problems to complete. Practice makes perfect.