What Is the Easiest Topology Textbook?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on identifying the easiest topology textbook for students struggling with the subject. Participants recommend several classic texts, including "Topology" by James Munkres, "Topology" by James Dugundji, and "General Topology" by Kelley. The consensus suggests that Munkres is the most accessible for beginners. Additionally, the importance of understanding definitions and utilizing examples is emphasized as a key strategy for mastering point-set topology concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with set theory concepts
  • Basic understanding of point-set topology
  • Knowledge of continuity and convergence
  • Experience with metric spaces, particularly R²
NEXT STEPS
  • Study "Topology" by James Munkres for foundational concepts
  • Explore examples of topological spaces to enhance understanding
  • Review definitions of key terms in point-set topology
  • Practice problems related to continuity and convergence in topology
USEFUL FOR

Students of mathematics, particularly those studying topology, educators seeking teaching resources, and anyone looking to strengthen their understanding of point-set topology concepts.

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"Easiest" topology textbook/book

I am having a terrible time learning topology. Abstract algebra comes easily, as does analysis but Topology is not making any sense whatsoever to me and I honostly try harder in it than my other classes and it gets me 1/10th the progress if not thousands less.

What is the deal with Topology? I even feel like a am pretty proficient in set theory which is usually the first chapter in a Topology textbook.

Would somebody please suggest the easiest Topology text out there. I am out of solutions. I have multiple texts, I visit my professor constantly, I attend lecture, I try problems and I look for help on this forum.

Somebody fill me in. I know I am whining here but I want to hear some thoughts from people. Good or bad.
 
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Point set topology is about generalizing the concept of a "neighborhood" and all the notions that rely of the concept of the neighborhood (continuity, convergence, etc).

Some classic texts are Munkres, Dugunji, Kelley.

I don't dislike the Dover book by Hocking & Young at all either.
 


Thank you Quasar
 


Judging by your posts in the HW section, I think your difficulty is stemming from a lack of understanding of the definitions. In my experience, the best way to wrap your head around all the definitions you meet in point-set topology (and there are plenty!) is by coming up with and examining examples. Fortunately, examples are very easy to come by in the beginning stages of topology. And usually thinking of all topological spaces as the metric space R^2 (with the usual Euclidean metric) is a good way to guide your intuition -- just make sure you don't take this too far, otherwise it will quickly go from an asset to a hindrance!

Edit: By the way, out of the books quasar mentioned, I would say Munkres is the easiest.
 

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