Larson's Calculus vs. Stewart's Calculus

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The discussion centers around the choice of textbooks for AP Calculus (AB and BC) courses, specifically comparing Larson's and Stewart's calculus books. Participants overwhelmingly favor Larson's book for its clarity, helpful exercises, and suitability for high school students. Many believe it explains concepts better than Stewart's, which some find less accessible. Thomas and Finney's Calculus and Analytic Geometry is also mentioned as a strong alternative, particularly the ninth edition, which some users recommend for its quality and readability. While a few participants express a preference for Stewart's book, citing its comprehensive coverage, the consensus leans towards Larson's as the more effective choice for high school learners.
thrill3rnit3
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Hi, I'm a high school student and I'm just wondering which book would be better for an AP Calculus (AB and BC) course. We're currently using Larson's (https://www.amazon.com/dp/061850303X/?tag=pfamazon01-20). If you guys think Stewart's single variable calc book is better (I KNOW IT SUCKS...but the choices come down to these two, sorry), I need to know please. Thanks :smile:
 
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Larson by about a mile. Far easier to understand. More helpful exercises, although there are a tone of them. He explains things better. Especially for a high school student, I'd choose Larson.

You can preview the book here:

http://hmco.tdlc.com/public/calc7esample/calc7emain.html

I'd also recommend looking into Thomas and Finney, seventh or ninth edition of Calculus and Analytic Geometry.
 
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OrbitalPower said:
Larson by about a mile. Far easier to understand. More helpful exercises, although there are a tone of them. He explains things better. Especially for a high school student, I'd choose Larson.

You can preview the book here:

http://hmco.tdlc.com/public/calc7esample/calc7emain.html

I'd also recommend looking into Thomas and Finney, seventh or ninth edition of Calculus and Analytic Geometry.

Yeah I know about Larson's book, and we're using the 8th edition right now.

Are there any newer editions of Thomas and Finney's book? Is it a good book for high school kids?
 
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opinions, anyone??
 
I definitely recommend Thomas and Finney 9th. I found it on ebay for about 10 dollars and reference it all the time.
 
I love Stewart's Calculus. I don't see why people dislike it. It's easy to understand and covers the topic very well. I have compared it to Thomas' and i would prefer stewart any day. However, i think spivak is the best if your aim is to learn a lot of pure math in the end.
 
physicsnoob93 said:
I love Stewart's Calculus. I don't see why people dislike it. It's easy to understand and covers the topic very well. I have compared it to Thomas' and i would prefer stewart any day. However, i think spivak is the best if your aim is to learn a lot of pure math in the end.

It's of a poorer quality than Thomas, that's why. I cannot see how anyone can prefer it to Thomas- the prose of Thomas is easily more informative as well as easier to read, and the examples, explanations, and graphs are better than Stewart. I have taken my bible from its shelf, and replaced it with Thomas Calculus, and every fortnight, I have prayed upon it.
 
I like Larson. I have a fourth edition that I've continually used since 1994.
 

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