Which Path Should I Take for Self-Directed Studies: Topology or Analysis?

  • Thread starter Thread starter jmjlt88
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    General
AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a user who had to postpone graduate school applications due to a personal loss but is now focusing on self-directed studies. They are considering two study paths: Path (a), which includes completing Munkres' Topology and then moving on to Algebraic Topology and Abstract Algebra, or Path (b), which substitutes Algebraic Topology with basic Analysis textbooks. The user expresses a preference for Path (a) based on interest, while acknowledging the importance of adequate preparation, which leans towards Path (b). Additionally, there is a suggestion that Munkres' Algebraic Topology book may not be the best choice, indicating a need for alternative resources. The overall consensus emphasizes the importance of pursuing subjects that align with personal interests while also ensuring a solid foundational understanding in preparation for future academic endeavors.
jmjlt88
Messages
94
Reaction score
0
This year I prepared graduate school applications, and they were all ready to be sent out. Unfortunately, my father passed away shortly before Christmas. This, as you can imagine, placed me in circumstances (for the time being) where it is longer possible to leave my job and head off to graduate school late this summer. However, my intention is to try again next year. (By “try again,” I mean to actually get a chance to send them out.) That being said, I am currently engaged in self-directed studies, and I could use a little advice on which path to take.

Path (a): I could finish up Part II of Topology by Munkres (which I already started), and I could then begin working through “Elements of Algebraic Topology” by the same author. Sometime this summer I would also begin working through Abstract Algebra by Dummit and Foote. Hence, by next summer (2014), I would have a good handle on general Topology, Algebraic Topology, and Algebra.

Part (b): Part (b) is the same as Path (a) except replace “Elements of Algebraic Topology” with a few basic Analysis textbooks.

My interest leads me down Path (a). My desire for adequate preparation suggests Path (b).

And, of course, please note that any other suggestions are more than welcome! I value any input greatly!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
In self-directed studies - follow the path of your interests.
 
Simon Bridge said:
In self-directed studies - follow the path of your interests.

Absolutely! Self-study works best when you study something that interests you the most. See George Jones his signature: https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4259735&postcount=21

That said, I don't think that Munkres his algebraic topology book is very good. There are better books out there.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Back
Top