Need resources to learn Tensors quick

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding concise resources for learning about tensors, particularly in preparation for general relativity (GR) and self-interaction concepts. Participants seek recommendations for PDFs or notes that provide a brief yet comprehensive introduction to tensor theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a short but in-depth introduction to tensors, expressing a preference for resources that are not overly lengthy.
  • Another participant suggests a specific PDF resource, which is acknowledged as a good starting point.
  • A participant expresses the need for more in-depth material to prepare for basic GR and self-interaction.
  • One participant praises chapter 1 of a particular set of notes for its clarity on tensor algebra and calculus.
  • Another participant recommends a different chapter 1 from another resource, indicating a preference for specific sections of materials.
  • Several participants confirm the usefulness of the suggested resources, while one requests an alternative format for a specific PDF that did not work for them.
  • A participant shares their personal experience with understanding tensors through index notation and matrix manipulation, suggesting a practical approach to learning.
  • One participant expresses a general enthusiasm for GR and tensors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for concise and effective resources for learning tensors, but there are varying opinions on which specific materials are most suitable. Some participants have differing experiences with the accessibility of suggested links.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention issues with accessing certain PDF links, indicating potential limitations based on operating systems or other technical factors.

xdrgnh
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Anyone have a good introduction to Tensor PDF I can read. I don't want to read a 100 pages on Tensors. I'm looking for a short but in depth introduction to tensors. Anyone have any suggestions.
 
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how about this pdf:

http://www.ce.udel.edu/faculty/kaliakin/appendix_tensors.pdf
 
Good start thanks but if it could be a little more in depth then that. I need to be prepared for basic GR and self interaction
 
Maybe chapter 1 of http://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/poisson/research/agr.pdf.
 
These are perfect thank you both.
 
atyy said:
Maybe chapter 1 of http://www.physics.uoguelph.ca/poisson/research/agr.pdf.
Do you have a link to another format? this one doesn't work for me

Never mind..already have that pdf
 
Last edited by a moderator:
The link works fine for me.
 
Maybe its my os, windows 8?
 
  • #10
Tensors only became tractable to me once I read lots of solutions involving the manipulation of index notation tensors; I found it most useful to play around with traditional matrix notation, and then try to do it with tensors, even basic things like taking products of two by twos and what have you. After that, reading about it from a top down point of view caused everything to click.
 
Last edited:
  • #11
i just love gr and tensors in general
 

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