Self-Study QFT: Prerequisites for Feynman Diagrams, QED & More

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To study Quantum Field Theory (QFT) effectively, a solid understanding of Quantum Mechanics (QM) is essential, particularly the axioms, state vectors, and time evolution in both the Schrödinger and Heisenberg pictures. Self-studying QM using Griffiths' textbook is a recommended approach, but it may not fully prepare one for the complexities of QFT, especially Peskin and Schroeder's material. Alternative resources like Mandl and Shaw or "QFT for the Gifted Amateur" can provide a more accessible introduction to the subject. Engaging with the relativistic formulation of electrodynamics and General Relativity may also enhance understanding before tackling QFT. Ultimately, the decision to self-study or wait for formal courses depends on individual readiness and commitment to the foundational topics.
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Summary:: I want to study QFT 1 in the upcoming semester, so what are the prerequisites to study it. By QFT 1 I mean Classical field theory, Canonical Quantization, Feynman Diagrams, and QED.

I am trying to self study QM from Griffiths' Introduction to Quantum Mechanics book. What are the sub topics in QM that are required to understand QFT at the level of Feynman Diagrams, QED processes etc. basically Part 1 of Peskin and Schroeder textbook.
 
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Is it better to do QFT 1 by self studying Quantum and Classical mechanics or wait for the formal courses which will happen in next year as two semester course and then take QFT the following year.

Or I could study relativistic formulation of electrodynamics now and extend this study to study General Relativity in a short break I would have in winter.
 
quantumdarkmatter said:
Is it better to do QFT 1 by self studying Quantum and Classical mechanics or wait for the formal courses which will happen in next year as two semester course and then take QFT the following year.

Or I could study relativistic formulation of electrodynamics now and extend this study to study General Relativity in a short break I would have in winter.
Are you studying physics at university?
 
I would not recommend study Peskin's book directly. It may be too difficult.

You could check this website, https://physics.ac/how-to-learn-qft/ .

It lists the basic prerequisites and recommend different books.
 
PeroK said:
Are you studying physics at university?
Yeah
 
quantumdarkmatter said:
I am trying to self study QM from Griffiths' Introduction to Quantum Mechanics book. What are the sub topics in QM that are required to understand QFT at the level of Feynman Diagrams, QED processes etc. basically Part 1 of Peskin and Schroeder textbook.
From Griffiths you need to know the axioms of quantum mechanics (Hilbert space, state vector, Schroedinger equation, commutation relations, observables and measurement), and be comfortable with both Schroedinger and Heisenberg pictures of time evolution.

Some approaches to QFT at an easier level than Peskin and Schroeder are Mandl and Shaw, and non-relativistic QFT from the view of condensed matter physics, which is just a language for non-relativistic quantum mechanics of many identical particles. QFT for the gifted amateur has gotten good reviews from many, although I haven't read it.
 

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