Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the differences between various editions of Thomas' Calculus textbook, particularly comparing the 3rd and 9th editions. Participants explore aspects such as content coverage, page count, quality of exposition, and personal preferences regarding older versus newer editions. The conversation includes considerations of suitability for specific academic purposes, such as the MATH GRE.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants question why the 9th edition has significantly more pages than the 3rd edition, suggesting it may include additional content or formatting changes.
- Others assert that the 9th edition is thorough and has been used at prestigious institutions like MIT, indicating its quality.
- Some participants express a preference for earlier editions, claiming they are better than later ones, while others defend the reputation of the 9th edition.
- There are mentions of specific features of the 3rd edition, such as its lack of gloss pages and fewer illustrations, which some participants find appealing.
- One participant shares a positive experience with the 5th edition, highlighting its clarity and effective exposition.
- Concerns are raised about the quality of alternate editions, with some participants noting that not all older editions guarantee a good learning experience.
- Some participants discuss their experiences with other calculus textbooks, comparing them to Thomas' editions and expressing preferences based on personal learning experiences.
- There is a mention of the suitability of different editions for preparing for the MATH GRE, with inquiries about other calculus texts.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a mix of opinions regarding the quality and suitability of different editions of Thomas' Calculus. While some favor the 3rd edition, others support the 9th edition, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a clear consensus.
Contextual Notes
Some participants note that the differences in editions may depend on personal learning preferences and experiences, and there are unresolved questions about the specific content changes between editions.
Who May Find This Useful
This discussion may be useful for students or educators considering which edition of Thomas' Calculus to use for study or teaching, as well as those preparing for standardized tests like the MATH GRE.