- #1
torquerotates
- 207
- 0
Would taking an intro to logic course help me prepare for the abstract proof writing skills that I'll need in upper division math?
Learning Logic to Master Math Proofs
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the preparation for abstract proof writing skills necessary for upper division mathematics courses, particularly in the context of whether an introductory logic course would be beneficial.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
- Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions the effectiveness of an intro to logic course for preparing for proof writing in upper division math.
- Another participant suggests that some departments offer dedicated proof-writing courses, implying that such a course would be more beneficial.
- A participant expresses concern that relying solely on upper division linear algebra for proof preparation might be risky, questioning the adequacy of this approach.
- In contrast, another participant argues that linear algebra proofs are straightforward and outlines key logical concepts that should be understood for proof writing.
- One participant recommends Solow's book on proofs as a potentially helpful resource, while another criticizes it as being overly complex and filled with unnecessary content.
- A participant expresses a willingness to create a tutorial on proof writing for the forum, indicating a desire to share knowledge and assist others.
- Another participant emphasizes the importance of seeking help from teaching assistants or professors to ensure understanding of expectations in proof writing.
- One participant admits to sometimes being too lazy to verify their own proofs but acknowledges an awareness of gaps in their reasoning.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the necessity and effectiveness of an introductory logic course for proof writing preparation. There is no consensus on the best approach to learning proof writing skills, with multiple competing perspectives presented.
Contextual Notes
Some participants highlight the importance of specific logical concepts and skills, but there is uncertainty regarding the adequacy of current departmental offerings for proof writing preparation.
- #2
Asphodel
- 443
- 0
Probably not.
Some departments carry a proof-writing course under one title or another. Ask yours if they have one.
Some departments carry a proof-writing course under one title or another. Ask yours if they have one.
- #3
torquerotates
- 207
- 0
Thats the problem. They don't offer one. They say that the prep comes while taking upper div linear algebra. But wouldn't that be too risky?
- #4
ice109
- 1,708
- 6
why? from what I've seen linear algebra proofs are very straight forward.
the only think you should be familiar with to write proofs is material implication, converse, contrapositive, and the two existential quantifiers.
after that you should be familiar with what it means to prove logical equivalence and set equivalence and material implication and set inclusion.
if you want i can help you.
the only think you should be familiar with to write proofs is material implication, converse, contrapositive, and the two existential quantifiers.
after that you should be familiar with what it means to prove logical equivalence and set equivalence and material implication and set inclusion.
if you want i can help you.
Last edited:
- #5
Asphodel
- 443
- 0
Well, Solow's book on proofs is pretty nice. I don't know if you need it, but it could be helpful if this is something you want to explore.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0471680583/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0471680583/?tag=pfamazon01-20
Last edited by a moderator:
- #6
ice109
- 1,708
- 6
solows book is over kill and filled with umm filler. i think tomorrow i'll sit down and write a short but sweet tutorial on how to do proofs for PF
- #7
Asphodel
- 443
- 0
Good, do it. 
Really, it's not that hard - provided you're regularly hitting up your TA or prof to make sure you're not missing anything they expect.
Really, it's not that hard - provided you're regularly hitting up your TA or prof to make sure you're not missing anything they expect.
- #8
ice109
- 1,708
- 6
meh i'll admit most of the time I'm too lazy to check my own proofs but most of the time i know when there's a gap somewhere in my reasoning.
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