Spivak or LA this Summer? [independent study]

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the decision of whether to study Spivak's Calculus or an introductory Linear Algebra (LA) book over the summer. Spivak is recommended as excellent preparation for real analysis, with well-structured concepts and challenging exercises. While both subjects are valuable for self-study, the consensus leans towards focusing on Spivak, especially for those who are already taking two classes during the summer. There is an emphasis on the importance of thorough understanding over superficial knowledge, suggesting that working through each chapter in detail is more beneficial than skimming the material. Participants encourage a deep engagement with Spivak, although some express concern about the feasibility of covering the entire book in a limited timeframe.
nickadams
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I have taken Calc 1 (computational) and Discrete Math (low-rigor proofs), and am currently taking Calc 2 (calc is a 2 semester course at my school), in the Fall I will take Vector Cal (mostly computational), probability (mostly computational), and LA (supposed to transition students to the rigor of RA and Algebra etc.)


I was wondering if I should spend this summer working through Spivak Calculus or an intro to LA book?
 
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Why not do both?? :-p

Spivak is a great preperation for a real analysis class. The concepts are very nicely worked out. The exercises are quite challenging.

Linear algebra could be a good self-study provided you pick a good book. If you pick Serge Lang's book or Friedberg, then you can't go wrong.

Both topics are worth to self-study. If I were you, I would do Spivak. But it's your choice.
 
I am working on Spivak this summer! LA can wait!
 
micromass said:
Why not do both?? :-p
I'm a slow learner and I'm already taking 2 classes this summer so I'm afraid there wouldn't be time enough to make meaningful progress on both Spivak and LA. :/

micromass said:
If I were you, I would do Spivak. But it's your choice.
K I think I'll do Spivak (unless someone makes a really good case for studying LA instead).
Should I just attempt to work through the whole book from the beginning or focus on a few key chapters? I doubt I will be able to get through even a quarter of the material in the book this summer but I want to get the most benefit out of my time spent.
DeadOriginal said:
I am working on Spivak this summer! LA can wait!

Cool; good luck!
 
nickadams said:
Should I just attempt to work through the whole book from the beginning or focus on a few key chapters? I doubt I will be able to get through even a quarter of the material in the book this summer but I want to get the most benefit out of my time spent.

bumping this question
 
nickadams said:
bumping this question

I do each chapter thoroughly. Its much more rewarding to know something in detail, than just have glancing ideas about everything.
 
Infinitum said:
I do each chapter thoroughly. Its much more rewarding to know something in detail, than just have glancing ideas about everything.

Yes, this is true. Try to work through everything.
 

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