Reading Quantum Field Theory to Books

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For those exploring quantum field theory (QFT), several key texts are recommended for study. "QFT in a Nutshell" by Zee and "Introduction to QFT" by Peskin are highlighted as excellent starting points, particularly for their focus on understanding the subject rather than just computational techniques. Ryder's QFT book is also noted for its comprehensive introduction and background information, making it a valuable resource. Additionally, "Advanced QFT" by Sakurai is mentioned, though it employs older notation. For foundational knowledge, familiarity with classical field theory and variational calculus is essential, with "Classical Mechanics" by Goldstein, Poole, and Safko suggested for review. Srednicki's QFT book is also appreciated, especially for its accessible draft PDF available online. Overall, a combination of these texts, particularly Zee and Peskin, along with Weinberg's volumes, is recommended for a successful learning experience in QFT.
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I was wondering what to read for quantum field theory and in what order if applicable: I have "qft in a nutshell" by zee, "intro to qft" by peskin, "qft" by rydern, and "advanced qft" by sakurai.
 
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note: advanced QM by sakurai is an older book which uses the so called "sakurai" notation or ict notation for the flat metric. Both Zee and Peskin are great books. I personally don't know too much about Ryder. Another good book is by Mandl & Shaw. Most of these books assume some knowledge on classical field theory, Lagrangian formulation of CM, variational calculus etc. you can learn/revise these using eg. Classical Mechanics by Goldstein, Poole & safko.
 
mjsd said:
note: advanced QM by sakurai is an older book which uses the so called "sakurai" notation or ict notation for the flat metric. Both Zee and Peskin are great books. I personally don't know too much about Ryder. Another good book is by Mandl & Shaw. Most of these books assume some knowledge on classical field theory, Lagrangian formulation of CM, variational calculus etc. you can learn/revise these using eg. Classical Mechanics by Goldstein, Poole & safko.

i forgot to mention that to assume i have a good backgroung in those subjects.
 
Zee's book is the kind of book that is meant more towards understanding of the subject rather than purely developing the computational power. At least when it comes to the introductory level. Zee's book plus the first 2 volumes of Weinberg's book are my receipt for a successful experience with QFT.
 
dextercioby said:
Zee's book is the kind of book that is meant more towards understanding of the subject rather than purely developing the computational power. At least when it comes to the introductory level. Zee's book plus the first 2 volumes of Weinberg's book are my receipt for a successful experience with QFT.

wouldn't ryder's qft book be also another good book because it also has a the background info too?
 
Ryder's book is good, too. It has a very well written introduction, but Zee is my take for a beginner.
 

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