Self-Study Math Guide: Achieving Goals in Physics and Pure Mathematics

  • Thread starter Thread starter MrMarvel
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Goals
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around self-studying mathematics in preparation for further studies in Physics or Pure Mathematics. Participants explore the appropriate areas of mathematics to study, the order of study, and the types of problems or equations that could help monitor progress.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on which areas of mathematics to study and in what sequence, along with specific problems to track progress.
  • Another participant questions the current level of mathematics knowledge, indicating that understanding the starting point is crucial for providing relevant advice.
  • A participant mentions starting from scratch with Algebra and expresses the belief that certain problems require a solid understanding of the corresponding mathematical area.
  • It is suggested that a good textbook will contain problems that align with the study material, which could aid in learning.
  • Recommendations for textbooks include works by Gelfand for beginners, Lang for those with some prior knowledge, and Euler's book, although the latter is noted to have an outdated writing style.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of having a structured approach to self-study and the utility of textbooks, but there is no consensus on the specific areas to focus on or the best resources to use.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not established a clear framework for the order of study or the specific problems to tackle, and there is uncertainty regarding the participant's prior knowledge of mathematics.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in self-studying mathematics, particularly those aiming to pursue studies in Physics or Pure Mathematics.

MrMarvel
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hello,

I've endeavored to self-teach math so I can eventually go on to study Physics or Pure Mathematics.

I was hoping someone may be able to give me a list of areas I should study and in what order and an equation or problem to work out throughout each section so I can monitor my progress and ability in said field.

I've tried to Google the lists and equations for that sort of thing but I've either fallen short or read a variety of differing opinions.

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What's your current level in mathematics??

MrMarvel said:
an equation or problem to work out throughout each section so I can monitor my progress and ability in said field.

No idea what you mean with this.
 
I'm starting from scratch with Algebra.

As for what did I mean by the equations or problems - Aren't there any equations or problems I wouldn't be able to figure out unless I had a solid understanding of the corresponding area of mathematics?
 
MrMarvel said:
Aren't there any equations or problems I wouldn't be able to figure out unless I had a solid understanding of the corresponding area of mathematics?

For sure, but if you get a good textbook, then this will already contain many such problems.

Did you ever do algebra before in HS?? If you didn't, then I recommend the books by Gelfand. This: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0817636773/?tag=pfamazon01-20 is a very good and basic introduction to algebra.

If you already know some algebra from HS (but somehow want to start over again or forgot everything), then you might want to go for Lang: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0387967877/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Another book that I've heard good things about is Euler. I have never looked into it though. It is freely available: http://archive.org/details/elementsofalgebr00euleuoft Some people call the book "outdated" though. Not because the contents isn't good, but because the writing style is strange and old. If you don't mind that, then Euler is fine.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
32
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
6K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K
  • · Replies 102 ·
4
Replies
102
Views
9K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
2K