Mathematics for computer science

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematics required for studying computer science, particularly for beginners. Participants explore various mathematical topics that may be relevant depending on the depth of study in computer science, including basic arithmetic, discrete mathematics, and numerical methods.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that basic arithmetic operations in binary are essential for understanding computer hardware, while others argue that there is no particular math involved in computer science.
  • Discrete mathematics is mentioned as a common requirement, including topics like graph theory, permutations/combinations, and Big O notation.
  • Linear algebra is noted as beneficial, especially for fields like image processing, while calculus and differential equations are highlighted for computer simulation work.
  • One participant emphasizes that the necessity of math depends on whether one is using computers as a tool or pursuing computer science as a specialty.
  • There is a suggestion that numerical methods should be learned after gaining proficiency in general programming.
  • Some participants express confusion regarding the timing and relevance of learning these mathematical concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity and timing of various mathematical topics in relation to computer science. Multiple competing views are presented regarding the importance of different areas of mathematics.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the relevance of certain mathematical topics, and there are indications of misunderstandings regarding the discussion's content.

just1ve
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Summary:: I need to learn the deepest information

I just started computer science. I have to learn computer basics and then what maths should I learn? What math should I learn after I've learned basic math?
 
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just1ve said:
Summary:: I need to learn the deepest information

I just started computer science. I have to learn computer basics and then what maths should I learn? What math should I learn after I've learned basic math?
I don't think there is any particular math involved in Computer Science. As part of your CS coursework you will obviously have to learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide in binary to understand how ALUs work in computer hardware, but that's pretty simple stuff. On the more theoretical side, you will likely take a course in Discrete Math, but that's pretty specialized (lots of proofs), and honestly I haven't used that knowledge much at all since university.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theoretical_computer_science

If you do much in the way of simulations and numerical processing, you will want to study the field of Numerical Methods:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerical_method
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerical_analysis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/numerical-method
 
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I usually see CS students taking up Discrete Math: Some Graph Theory, Permutations/Combinations, Big O computations, etc.
 
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just1ve said:
Summary:: I need to learn the deepest information

I just started computer science. I have to learn computer basics and then what maths should I learn? What math should I learn after I've learned basic math?
That depends on how far you want to go into computer science as a major or minor. Just using computers as a tool for other specialties does not require any specialized mathematics. On the other hand, learning computer science as a specialty would require several math subjects like binary calculations, trees and graphs, etc. They can all be most easily found in the computer science texts that require those math subjects.
 
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Linear algebra is a good one to have especially if one gets into image processing. Basic programming needs some understanding of algebra, Boolean algebra and possibly trig depending on the application.

Computer simulation work would involve calculus, differential equations, boundary value and partial differential equations and possibly higher level math to do it right.
 
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berkeman said:
I don't think there is any particular math involved in Computer Science. As part of your CS coursework you will obviously have to learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide in binary to understand how ALUs work in computer hardware, but that's pretty simple stuff. On the more theoretical side, you will likely take a course in Discrete Math, but that's pretty specialized (lots of proofs), and honestly I haven't used that knowledge much at all since university.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theoretical_computer_science

If you do much in the way of simulations and numerical processing, you will want to study the field of Numerical Methods:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerical_method
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerical_analysis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/numerical-method
when should I learn these maths
 
You should learn the numerical methods sometime after you've learned to do general programming.
 
jedishrfu said:
You should learn the numerical methods sometime after you've learned to do general programming.
I don't understand
 
just1ve said:
I don't understand
@just1ve , what do you not understand about what was posted?

Perhaps English is not your first language?
 
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Thread closed for the reason given below.
just1ve said:
I don't understand
The OP has written this or other unhelpful responses in several threads, in reply to very detailed answers. Some of the mentors are even entertaining the possibility that we are being trolled.
StatGuy2000 said:
@just1ve , what do you not understand about what was posted?
Almost exactly the same question I asked in another thread by this member.
 
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