Studying Value of learning the Theory of Computation and Automata

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the suitability of Neso Academy for learning theory of computation and automata, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation in computer science, calculus, and linear algebra. The resource is deemed acceptable for those studying out of curiosity, though the depth of its content remains uncertain. A 12-year-old participant expresses a keen interest in theoretical physics and mathematics but struggles with advanced concepts due to limited mathematical knowledge. They seek advice on improving problem-solving skills and understanding complex topics like quantum mechanics and general relativity. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of a strong mathematical background for tackling advanced theoretical subjects.
DifferentialGalois
Messages
68
Reaction score
25
This may be a somewhat disorderly, unplanned out question, but nonetheless, I don’t know whether or not there exist any suitable academic advising websites that would be suitable for posting such. Would it be worthwhile investing time into learning theory of computation and automata via Neso Academy? Are there any particular prerequisites for such?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Please define "worthwhile" and what Neso teaches.
 
DifferentialGalois said:
what Neso teaches
Looks like it's a small on-line learning resource...

1568309784598.png
 
To the OP:

I don't know what your academic background is, but based on my experience from my alma mater, an introduction to theory of computation and automata will typically require someone with a background in an introductory course on computer science (covering data structures and algorithms, not just on programming), along with some background in calculus and linear algebra (at approximately the first year university level).

I took a quick look at the Neso Academy and tried the quiz on theory of computation. As a quick refresher, it's not half bad, but I didn't look at the lectures. If you intend to study this out of curiosity/interest, I see nothing wrong with using this as a resource.
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman
StatGuy2000 said:
I don't know what your academic background is,
Here is his New Member Introduction post...

DifferentialGalois said:
Greetings, I am a 12 year old who is vastly intrigued by the wonders of theoretical physics (experimental physics has not exactly been to my liking) as well the subtle art of mathematics. For the past six months, I have attempted to work my way up to mastering mathematical prerequisites required of basic quantum mechanics. While I have learned some of the conceptual aspects of QM, I understand very scarce amounts of the mathematical formulation of it. The Dirac notation is bearable, but the issues turn up when there begin turning up partial derivatives, partial differential equations, esoteric metrics, topological spaces and so forth. How would I potentially overcome such a barrier? My math repertoire is currently exceedingly limited, consisting of merely 75% of differential calc., 50% of integral calc and mastery of the prerequisites. I have dabbled a bit in the fields of complex analysis and linear algebra, albeit now I fear that by learning excessive theory, I am not gaining much out of it. For instance, there were questions in a national math olympiad past paper that completely stumped me, even though the answers operated on basic mathematical principles such as the pigeonhole principle. Thus, I desperately want to enhance my mathematical problem solving skills, not for the sake of time management, but for the sake of finding innovative and creative methods to solve a problem by applying the theory. I have read a bit on The Art and Craft of Problem Solving by Paul Zeitz, but I feel that it isn't allowing my problem solving (which is exceedingly important in research mathematics) to improve by a vast amount.

As for theoretical physics, I have read up a bit on the underlying basics of special relativity and quantum physics (e.g. Minkowski spacetime diagrams, Bell's inequality, Lorentz and Gallilean transformations, Kochen Specker theorem and the EPR paradox), albeit I honestly don't know what to do now, considering my limited math knowledge. General relativity simply overwhelms me with excessive differential geometry, Griffiths' introductory quantum physics book is just too advanced for me, special relativity provides with a relief but nonetheless, I get perplexed by the most seemingly simple things. I don't know how to go about such.
 
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Back
Top