Self studying math topics over the summer

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on self-studying advanced mathematics topics over the summer, specifically differential equations, multivariable calculus, and linear algebra, following the completion of Calculus BC. The user seeks online resources and mentions interest in Gilbert Strang's lectures and his textbook "Linear Algebra and Its Applications." Additionally, the conversation highlights the importance of problem-solving for mastery, referencing Spivak's calculus problems as a benchmark for understanding. The user is also open to exploring other mathematical subjects to maintain engagement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Completion of Calculus BC
  • Familiarity with linear algebra concepts
  • Understanding of multivariable calculus
  • Basic knowledge of differential equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore online courses for Differential Equations at Academic Earth
  • Study Gilbert Strang's Linear Algebra lectures for foundational understanding
  • Work through Spivak's calculus problems to solidify mastery
  • Research additional mathematical topics that focus on proofs and theoretical foundations
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for undergraduate mathematics studies, self-learners in advanced math topics, and anyone seeking to strengthen their mathematical foundations before university.

glen37
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this year I finished calculus BC, which is the equivalent of calc 1 and 2. I feel as though I've completely mastered the material and I'm ready to start moving on before I enter university next year. The next math classes I'd be taking would be differential equations, calc 3 (multivariable calculus) and linear algebra and I'm looking to get a head start on them over the summer since math is what I really want to do. I don't want to buy any textbooks for them so does anyone know good online resources for these subjects?

also I feel focusing on all this calculus business may be boring at times over the summer so I'm open to any other mathematical subjects that are interesting and I can delve into at any pace I want.

anyone have ideas? these are some interesting lectures I'm looking at right now but I really want to have a strong foundation in these topics.

http://www.academicearth.org/courses/linear-algebra
http://www.academicearth.org/courses/differential-equations
http://www.academicearth.org/courses/multivariable-calculus-1
 
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I don't know about the other two, but I've watched some of Gilbert Strang's linear algebra lectures and they're quite good. My first exposure to linear algebra was a summer class (can it already be 20 years ago?) that used Strang's "Linear Algebra and Its Applications" as the text, which I enjoyed at the time:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0030105676/?tag=pfamazon01-20

I see that the online course includes three quizzes and the final exam, but I don't see any homework problems. (But check out the final exam: "closed book, ten wonderful problems.") You will probably want to find a good source of problems if you want to gain any mastery over the material. I don't know any good online sources offhand, but if you have access to a decent library you can always borrow Strang's book.
 
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I feel as though I've completely mastered the material

You haven't completely mastered Calculus until you can do most, if not all, of Spivak's problems.
 
thrill3rnit3 said:
You haven't completely mastered Calculus until you can do most, if not all, of Spivak's problems.

This sounds like a good idea and I think I'll actually work through this book. Are there solutions?

Are there books similar to spivak for the other topics I listed that build up a strong foundation and focus on proofs? I'm really looking to prepare myself for undergraduate studies in math.
 

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