Self-Studying PDE this Summer? What's the Best Textbook to Use?

In summary, for self-studying PDEs this summer, the suggested textbook is Haberman's Applied Partial Differential Equations, which provides a good introduction to the physical side of PDEs and is easy to read. Another recommendation is Farlow's PDE for Scientists and Engineers, which covers the material with lots of examples and is targeted towards scientists and engineers. It is also an inexpensive Dover book.
  • #1
Fizicks1
41
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I'll be taking PDE this coming Fall semester, and I want to have a head start by doing some self studying this summer. What's a good textbook you would recommend for PDE?
(the official textbook in my university is "Beginning Partial Differential Equations" by Peter O'Neil but I've heard nothing but bad things about it, and online reviews trashes it)

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
What kind of PDE class is it?

I liked Haberman's Applied Partial Differential Equations (link). I looked over the ToC of the book you mentioned and it seems fairly close to this one (though Haberman covers some additional topics like Green's functions). I think it's a good introduction to the physical (applied) side of PDEs and found it pretty easy to read.
 
  • #3
Only one suggestion? I guess there aren't that many good PDE books out there huh.

theorem4.5.9 said:
What kind of PDE class is it?

I liked Haberman's Applied Partial Differential Equations. I looked over the ToC of the book you mentioned and it seems fairly close to this one (though Haberman covers some additional topics like Green's functions). I think it's a good introduction to the physical (applied) side of PDEs and found it pretty easy to read.

Thanks theorem4.5.9, appreciate it. Good thing my university's library carries this book so I can check it out for a while first before I buy it.
Thanks again!
 
  • #4
"Basic Partial Differential Equations".

It actually proves things, unlike Haberman's.
 
  • #5
Farlow, PDE for Scientists and Engineers is a nice book to learn from. It covers the material, has lots of examples, and is targeted at scientists and engineers rather than mathematicians. (I assume this is your desire since you inquired at Physics Forums!) It is a Dover book, so it is quite inexpensive. Highly recommended...
 

1. What is the best textbook for learning about Partial Differential Equations (PDEs)?

There are many great textbooks available for learning about PDEs, so the best one will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some popular options include "Partial Differential Equations for Scientists and Engineers" by Stanley J. Farlow, "Introduction to Partial Differential Equations" by Peter J. Olver, and "Partial Differential Equations: An Introduction" by Walter A. Strauss.

2. What level of math background is required for studying PDEs?

A strong foundation in calculus and linear algebra is essential for understanding PDEs. It is also helpful to have some knowledge of vector calculus, complex analysis, and basic differential equations.

3. Are there any online resources for learning about PDEs?

Yes, there are many online resources available for learning about PDEs. Some popular options include video lectures on platforms like YouTube and Coursera, online courses on websites like Khan Academy and edX, and open-source textbooks such as "Applied Partial Differential Equations" by J. David Logan.

4. What topics should a good PDE textbook cover?

A good PDE textbook should cover the basic concepts of PDEs, including classification, boundary conditions, and solution techniques. It should also cover various types of PDEs, such as elliptic, parabolic, and hyperbolic equations, and their applications in different fields such as physics, engineering, and mathematics.

5. Is it better to use a traditional textbook or an interactive online resource for studying PDEs?

It ultimately depends on your learning style and preferences. Traditional textbooks may provide more in-depth explanations and examples, while interactive online resources may offer a more engaging and hands-on learning experience. It may be helpful to use a combination of both for a well-rounded understanding of PDEs.

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