Prerequisite of the book "Linear Algebra done right"

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the prerequisites for studying Sheldon Axler's "Linear Algebra done right" after completing Stewart's calculus. Participants explore whether knowledge of calculus is sufficient for tackling Axler's text or if a more foundational linear algebra book should be read first.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that calculus and linear algebra are fairly independent subjects, implying that prior calculus knowledge may not be a significant barrier to studying Axler's book.
  • Another participant notes that Axler's approach is somewhat unusual, focusing on operators rather than matrices, which could create gaps in practical knowledge.
  • A different participant references an external resource that mentions Friedberg as a prerequisite and suggests that both Friedberg and Axler approach linear algebra in a proof-based manner.
  • This participant also recommends alternative texts, such as Strang's "Introduction to Linear Algebra," Singh's "Linear Algebra step-by-step," and Lay's linear algebra book, which may align more closely with the style of Stewart's calculus.
  • Another participant explicitly advises against starting with Axler, describing it as terse, abstract, and theoretical, and suggests considering Friedberg, Insel and Spence, or Shilov for a more accessible introduction.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether Axler's text is suitable for someone with only calculus knowledge. There is no consensus on a single recommended approach or text, indicating multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the abstract nature of Axler's book and the potential lack of computational aspects, suggesting that readers may need to consider their own learning preferences and backgrounds when choosing a text.

PcumP_Ravenclaw
Messages
105
Reaction score
4
Dear Fellows,
I have recently completed the study of Stewart's calculus. Next, I want to read Linear Algebra.

I have bought Sheldon Axler's "Linear Algebra done right" textbook. I want to know if my knowledge of calculus is enough to tackle this book or should I first read from a more basic Linear Algebra textbook before moving on to Axler? If so, please suggest me such a book that can lay the foundation.

Cheers,

-Ravenclaw
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Calculous and linear algebra are fairly independent subjects. I don't think you should worry about that. Although I am not familiar with your chosen text, my understanding is that it has a somewhat unusual approach and describes things as operators, rather than tangible matrices. That may leave gaps in your practical knowledge.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: PcumP_Ravenclaw
Take a look at this: https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/self-study-algebra-linear-algebra
It specifically mentions Friedberg as a pre-req. These books are both looking at linear algebra in a proof-based way as a mathematician would.

For a book that treats linear algebra in a way similar to how Stewart cover's calculus, consider these two:
(1) Introduction to Linear Algebra (5th ed) by Strang.
(2) Linear Algebra step-by-step by Singh
Linear Algebra by Lay is also frequently recommended.

Also, consider watching the brilliant linear algebra videos by 3blue1brown:

These videos brilliantly convey intuition.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: The_Eternal_Observer, Highwire, penta-d and 1 other person
i do not recommend axler for you now. it is terse and abstract, and theoretical, and omits some very useful computational aspects. i suggest friedberg, insel and spence, or shilov, or even much easier books.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: The_Eternal_Observer, penta-d, Elementalnature and 1 other person

Similar threads

  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
5K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
9K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
11K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K