Linux for Windows Addicts: A Smooth Transition

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a book titled "Linux for Windows Addicts," aimed at Windows users interested in transitioning to Linux. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the Linux operating system, covering installation, kernels, file systems, programming, and Linux servers. The book is praised for its readability, featuring clear explanations and visual aids that make complex concepts accessible. However, it is noted that the content is tailored specifically for Windows users, which may not appeal to those with existing Linux knowledge. The book is described as broad and not overly technical, focusing on what Linux does rather than the underlying mechanisms. The author rates the book 4 out of 5 and mentions its affordability at around $30. Additionally, there is a request for recommendations on textbooks that effectively prepare students for the AP Computer Science exam, emphasizing the need for clear explanations and foundational understanding.
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Linux for Windows Addicts

INTRODUCTION
Everyone has a stance in the OS debates, but I've really never taken a side. I have Mandrake on one machine and I could do some commands and simple stuff, but I didn't really know what Linux was all about. I've been a Windows person forever and I took interest in this book right away. It's for people who want to learn how Linux works in terms us Microsoft people are used to.

AUDIENCE
This book is for current Windows users who want to try Linux using their current Windows knowledge

SCOPE
Introduces the Linux OS. Everything from Installation, Kernals, File Systems, Programming and Linux Servers.

PROS
This book is extremely easy to read. It's not too wordy, but not too technical either. You really enjoy just sitting down and reading as if it were a novel.

Linux for Windows Addicts uses many figures and pictures so you can actually see what the author is talking about. The explanation of the new Linux terms is wonderful.

It works! I was very frustrated with Linux, but now I appreciate what it is and can for the most part put it to good use.

CONS
This book is specifically for Windows users, so anyone with some Linux knowledge might not be interested. Again, this book is very broad and not very technical. So you may understand what Linux does and can do, but you won't find out how it does things and why.

CONCLUSION

Find it on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0072130814/?tag=pfamazon01-20

It's paperback, fairly light and I got it for about $30.

Rating: 4/5
 
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I'm a senior in high school studying for the ap computer science exam in java. I have the run-of-the-mill "5 steps to a 5" or "Barron AP CS" books. But I feel those books don't do an adequate job explaining the material; it covers everything but doesn't provide sufficient explanation or the why's.

I'm looking for a book (textbook) that I could read and study with that will prepare me for the AP CS exam and wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction (typically any college-level CS1 textbook).

For those who have programming experience in Java or have taken any CS classes, have any ideas?

Thanks a lot.
 
This thread only works as a summary from the original source: List of STEM Masterworks in Physics, Mechanics, Electrodynamics... The original thread got very long and somewhat hard to read so I have compiled the recommendations from that thread in an online (Google Drive) spreadsheet. SUMMARY Permits are granted so you can make comments on the spreadsheet but I'll initially be the only one capable of edition. This is to avoid the possibility of someone deleting everything either by mistake...
By looking around, it seems like Dr. Hassani's books are great for studying "mathematical methods for the physicist/engineer." One is for the beginner physicist [Mathematical Methods: For Students of Physics and Related Fields] and the other is [Mathematical Physics: A Modern Introduction to Its Foundations] for the advanced undergraduate / grad student. I'm a sophomore undergrad and I have taken up the standard calculus sequence (~3sems) and ODEs. I want to self study ahead in mathematics...
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