Not sure to take Methods of Discrete Mathematics after Calculus 1

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the course "Methods of Discrete Mathematics," its content, prerequisites, and the appropriateness of taking it after Calculus 1 or alongside Calculus 2. Participants explore the nature of discrete mathematics, its focus on mathematical reasoning, and the skills required for success in the course.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants seek clarification on what "Methods of Discrete Mathematics" entails and whether it requires calculus knowledge.
  • One participant provides a course description emphasizing mathematical reasoning, logic, proofs, algorithms, and combinatorial analysis, noting that the prerequisite is Pre-Calculus.
  • Another participant mentions that their discrete structures class does not involve calculus and focuses on logic and proofs.
  • It is suggested by some that discrete mathematics is distinct from calculus, with one participant asserting that calculus is not used at all in the course.
  • Concerns are raised about the difficulty of the course when taught by an instructor who may not effectively communicate the material.
  • Participants discuss the importance of understanding logic and proofs for math majors and suggest taking the course sooner to grasp foundational concepts.
  • Several participants share recommendations for textbooks, with mixed opinions on their quality based on personal experiences and reviews.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on whether discrete mathematics should be taken after Calculus 1 or alongside Calculus 2, as participants express differing views on the relevance of calculus to the course. Additionally, opinions on the quality of recommended textbooks vary.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that discrete mathematics courses can differ significantly between universities, which may affect the content and teaching style.

Who May Find This Useful

Math majors considering taking Methods of Discrete Mathematics, students interested in the relationship between calculus and discrete math, and those looking for textbook recommendations may find this discussion relevant.

TitoSmooth
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I am a math major and I need to take Methods of Discrete Mathematics. What is methods of discrete mathematics? Should I take it after My calculus series( including linear/ diff. equations)? Is it easy enough to take with Calculus 2? Thanks
 
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TitoSmooth said:
What is methods of discrete mathematics?

Does your college's website or printed catalog have a course description for it?
 
IMATHEMATICS 272
Methods of Discrete Mathematics
5 UNITS – (UC:CSU)
Prerequisite: Mathematics 260 with a satisfactory grade or equivalent.
This course stresses mathematical reasoning and the different ways problems are solved. Interwoven in this course are: mathematical reasoning (logic and mathematical proofs), algorithm (use of pseudocode), combinatorial analysis (ability to count), and discrete structures and their basic applications.

this is the course description and Pre-Calculus is prerec.

I am taking Calculus 1 currently and I am doing well.
 
I'm in a discrete structures class now and as far as I can tell it's not going to include any calculus. It's things like logic/truth tables, mathematical proofs (prove that an even number multiplied by and even number is an even number, etc). The methods can be used for calculus, but if the only prerequisite is precalc, it may not even cover any calculus.
 
You will use exactly zero calculus in discrete mathematics. Discrete math is a whole different world. You should be fine as long as you are comfortable with basic proofs. Take a look at mathematical induction, it's one of the most important topics you learn in discrete math.
 
I've been to a few universities and every discrete course is slightly different. However, nearly every single one has a strong focus on truth table and basic logic. Some people find learning logic at first difficult and time consuming, other people find it intuitive and breeze by it. However, if you plan to be a math major, it would behoove you to take it sooner rather than later, since this type of thinking will allow you to appreciate the structure of theorems and method of proofs sooner. So when you come across necessary and sufficient conditions you can truly understand what those words mean and why one theorem may say such and such is necessary and why another one will say xyz is sufficient for abc. You'll also be at following proofs and appreciate the techniques.
 
Would it be too hard to take with only Calculus 2? The instructor who teaches discreet math is one of the worst teachers there. A very good mathematician but cannot explain material at all.


What are some elementary discreet books to look at? My precal covered proof by induction extremely well. N the only other proofs I saw where geometry proofs 2 years ago which were extremely fun.
 
Hercuflea said:
A pretty standard book https://www.amazon.com/dp/0073383090/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Looked at the reviews and most are bad. Can be people who don't like math in general so I take the reviews wirh a grain of salt. What is ur oppion on this book if u have used it?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #10
I'm using the book right now in my discrete structures class, and I have found it to give quite clear examples so far. I like it. We only just finished chapter one, though.
 

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