Is Self-Learning Mathematics Without University Feasible?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of self-learning mathematics without attending university, specifically focusing on the proposed study route for various mathematical topics. Participants explore the necessity of certain mathematical concepts, such as three-dimensional spaces and linear algebra, in relation to the study of advanced topics like stochastic processes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant outlines a self-study route from calculus to advanced topics, questioning the necessity of three-dimensional spaces and vectors.
  • Some participants argue that studying three-dimensional spaces is essential due to its applications in partial derivatives, multiple integrals, and PDEs relevant to stochastic processes.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of understanding the three-dimensional nature of the world as a rationale for studying these concepts.
  • Several participants suggest that linear algebra should be studied before calculus III and ordinary differential equations (ODEs), indicating that the coverage in calculus courses may not be sufficient.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about their understanding of three-dimensional concepts and seeks recommendations for resources to aid their learning.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of studying three-dimensional spaces and linear algebra, but there is no consensus on the sufficiency of the coverage provided in calculus courses. Multiple competing views remain regarding the optimal study sequence and resource recommendations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of confidence in their understanding of the material, and there are mentions of specific resources that may or may not meet their learning needs. The discussion reflects a range of assumptions about the prerequisites for advanced mathematical study.

woundedtiger4
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Hi all!
I am self teaching myself and due to no money plus time I can't join University, but I want to study maths on my own, therefore please guide me.
I have adapt a route calc1->calc2->calc3->differential equation->introductory linear algebra->introductory abstract algebra-> real analysis->measure theory->probability theory, so that I can study topics as stochastic process, brownian motiion etc. is this route sounds OK?
currently I am studying calc2 and I was wondering if I really need to study three dimensional spaces and/or vectors or not, does it not use only in computer graphics, physics etc sort of stuff?
Thanks in advance
 
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Yes, you absolutely need to study it. Things like partial derivatives, multiple integrals, PDE's have quite some application in stochastic processes.
 


think about what you are doing. you are studying science, the structure of our world. is the world at least three dimensional? does that answer your question?
 


woundedtiger4 said:
I have adapt a route calc1->calc2->calc3->differential equation->introductory linear algebra->introductory abstract algebra-> real analysis->measure theory->probability theory

Your question has already been answered. However, I would also suggest you do linear algebra before Calc 3 and ODEs.
 
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Sankaku said:
You question has already been answered. However, I would also suggest you do linear algebra before Calc 3 and ODEs.

Ah yes, I missed that. i definitely agree!
 


Sankaku said:
Your question has already been answered. However, I would also suggest you do linear algebra before Calc 3 and ODEs.

Thanks a tonne for the reply. I am studying Calculus at http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/ and in calc 2 & 3 it covers some linear algebra such as "Vectors - Basics, Magnitude, Unit Vector, Arithmetic, Dot Product, Cross Product, Projection
Three Dimensional Coordinate System - Equations of Lines, Equations of Planes, Quadratic Surfaces, Functions of Multiple Variables, Vector Functions, Limits, Derivatives, and Integrals of Vector Functions, Tangent Vectors, Normal Vectors, Binormal Vectors, Curvature, Cylindrical Coordinates, Spherical Coordinates, Equations of Lines, Equations of Planes, Quadratic Surfaces, Functions of Multiple Variables, Vector Functions, Limits, Derivatives, and Integrals of Vector Functions, Tangent Vectors, Normal Vectors, Binormal Vectors, Curvature, Cylindrical Coordinates, Spherical Coordinates."
This webstie also offers a separate course on linear algebra and the highest level of this course is Euclidean n-space and Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors.
Don't you think that I will cover sufficient linear algebra in Calc2 & 3 and therefore I will not need to study separate lin. algebra?

P.S. Actually Paul's notes are excellent but I don't know why I am not getting anything in three dimension (also I tried to read the lin algebra on his website but it's still going over my head :( ) therefore now I am studying these particular topics in the early transcendentals - calculus by James Stewart (chapter 12 & 13)
 
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Calc II and III will definitely not be sufficient linear algebra background. And I agree with the previous posters. Do some linear algebra before ODE (and get some in before calc III if possible).
 


Broccoli21 said:
Calc II and III will definitely not be sufficient linear algebra background. And I agree with the previous posters. Do some linear algebra before ODE (and get some in before calc III if possible).

Thanks a tonne for your valuable advice. Hopefully, I will finish Calc2 by this week and then I will start calc3 along linear algebra. Can you please recommend any good book or website which takes the reader from beginner level to some upper level?
 
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