Which one is the best textbook for self-studying differential equations?

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Self-studying differential equations, both ordinary and partial, requires careful selection of textbooks. Recommended titles include Boyce & DiPrima, Zill, and Tenenbaum & Pollard, with a focus on finding a book that balances rigor with clarity and includes qualitative methods, illustrations, and proofs. While some texts are noted for their lack of rigor, others like Birkhoff & Rota are considered more comprehensive but may be outdated and expensive. Users suggest checking university libraries for access to these texts before purchasing. The discussion emphasizes the importance of aligning the chosen book with the reader's mathematical background and interests, whether in theory or applications. Additionally, Dover's ODE book is mentioned as a gentle introduction for novices. Overall, the consensus leans towards selecting a text that is modern, rigorous, and well-reviewed to ensure a solid understanding of differential equations.
  • #31
I used a lot of different DE books when I took the course. What I found was: the 2 Schaum's on this subject were really bad, the book by Nagle is ok as a recipe book for anything you'd cover in a semester course (and it sells for 4-5$ shipped on amazon used) but it's a bit of a brick.

The one by Tenenbaum has the best explanations I've seen and has methods I haven't seen anywhere else, I would buy that one if you typically keep your textbooks.
 
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  • #32
+1 for for Tenenbaum & Pollard. I bought it as a more advanced reference for a course I am taking (which uses Zill - total garbage) and I think it is a fantastic book. Very well written. And its a dover!
 

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