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

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The discussion centers on self-teaching mathematics as a foundation for studying Physics or Pure Mathematics. The original poster seeks guidance on which mathematical areas to study and in what order, along with specific equations or problems to track progress. Participants emphasize the importance of starting with a solid textbook that includes problems relevant to each mathematical concept. Recommendations for introductory algebra resources include Gelfand's books for complete beginners and Lang's for those with some prior knowledge. Euler's work is also mentioned as a freely available option, although its outdated writing style may not appeal to everyone. Overall, the focus is on structured learning through quality resources and practical problem-solving.
MrMarvel
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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!
 
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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.
 
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Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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