Need opinions on my Differential Eqations textbook

[Mathgician]

I was wondering what you guys think of my textbook.
My textbook is called:

A First Course in Differential Eqations (Eight Edition)

Author: Dennis G. Zill

ISBN: 0534418783

I have been using this book for my DE class, and I do not feel like I am really learning anything. This class is very different from my other math classes, I learn methods that I am not getting a solid explanations for. Most people I've gone for help that has taken this class before have forgotten most of the materials that has been tought in this class. I want to get the most out of my DE class, is there another book you guys suggest that will help me understand DE and not forget it?

 

[mathwonk]

i liked martin braun, and guterman and nitecki, and v. arnol'd, and the great classic by harry pollack.

there is a textbook recommendation thread here by the way.

 

[Mathgician]

Also, another question, is the first differential equations course just a beginning course that does not go indepth? I just don't feel like I am learning anything or in other words getting any insights. Tell me your experience people.

 

[quasar987]

I have been using this book for my DE class, and I do not feel like I am really learning anything.

I can relate to that, and I suggest you take a peek at V. Arnol'd's book.

But I can't relate to

I learn methods that I am not getting a solid explanations for.

We used the book by Boyce and DiPrima when I took the class. Maybe it will help you fix that problem.

 

[J77]

Yeah -- I like (second) Boyce and DiPrima as a first text.

 

[PhilosophyofPhysics]

My class uses Blanchard, Devaney, and Hall. It has been one of the easiest math classes I've ever taken. I don't know if this text is as advanced as texts other colleges might use, but apparently our professor taught this same course at a more pretigious university and my class is owning that class.

 

[mathwonk]

B, D and H is easy because they do not prove anything as i recall.