Book Description

This volume picks up where Practical Math Success leaves off by getting into greater detail on algebra.There are hundreds of practice exercises without a lot of theory or math jargon that provide essential practice in solving algebra problems, especially word problems.Also, learners will discover the practical applicability of algebra skills to real-world (and real work) problems. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great book for anyone taking a tough Algebra course!
I took Algebra over the summer and before taking the class I read this book. It helped me alot. This book gets down to the facts and helps you understand them with practice and examples. For me this book was better than a teacher teaching me Algebra. It was great and helped me alot. I think this should be a required material for all algebra classes; it is better than any textbook. I am taking Geometry next year and I am soon to order Geometry Success in 20 Minutes a Day!

Almost 5 stars
This is indeed a good algebra primer, though not without its failings. First the positive. The authors avoid the use of math jargon and long winded explanations that many other academic types use primarily for self-aggrandizement purposes. There are plenty of practice problems, and the lessons are laid out in a logical order. Now the negative. Some of the more difficult concepts are given little attention, while the very simple are given far too much attention. Also, the book should have been edited more closely (there are several typos and at least one repeated paragraph, but these errors are, for the most part, easily recognizable). I have found that books written by teachers are quite often rubberstamped by the people checking for accuracy, but this book avoids one of the worst failings of teacher/authors--the apparent practice of an author simply handing class notes to a publisher, believing their work is infallible. The authors of this book obviously put much thought into this work, and have succeeded admirably. Oh, by the way, "...In 20 Minutes A Day" means absolutely nothing.

Great Book!
I am planning to go to College as a mature student in Spring and really and truly needed to fully understand Algebra. Well this book is perfect. Step by Step. If you don't understand Algebra after studying this book, you really weren't paying attention.

That and it's actually enjoyable. I also bought learn Geometry in 20 minutes a day. And I also feel the same way about that book.

Saves alot of time and money
This book along with practical algebra have helped me become a great math student.

written from a students perspective
stumbled on this book in a book store after searching for a book for my brother. he just cannot understand the concept well enough because the text he uses in school is written in a fashion that assumes you know some stuff i think a good book is written when an author explains to you like a "dummy" that helps alot i know that because i'm a math tutor. i have spent 6 hours reviewing the style of this book and it really impresses me of how simple and understanding can an author make algebra. I dont quiet remember if there were any big emphasis on exponentials which i think are important, but if i over look this i stand correction. Any way great book it has taught me alot of easier way to do problems. its also great for those who have taken algebra years ago and need a brush up. GO GET IT I'M SERIOUS ... Read more

Book Description

This is a new edition of the precalculus text developed by the Consortium based at Harvard University and funded by a National Science Foundation Grant. The text is thought-provoking for well-prepared students while still accessible to students with weaker backgrounds. It provides numerical and graphical approaches as well as algebraic approaches to give students another way of mastering the material. This approach encourages students to persist, thereby lowering failure rates. A large number of real-world examples and problems enable students to create mathematical models that will help them understand the world in which they live.

The focus is on those topics that are essential to the study of calculus and these topics are treated in depth.

• Linear, exponential, power, and periodic functions are introduced before polynomial and rational functions to take advantage of their use to model physical phenomena.
• Building on the Consortium's Rule of Four: Each function is represented symbolically, numerically, graphically, and verbally where appropriate.

Reviews (8)

Hate math? you'll hate this book!
We are up to chapter 5 in this book so far. Several people in the class have had to take it over several times now. The book is too hard...at least for a lot of people it is. The concepts are not presented clearly. It can be very hard to correlate the example problems to the homework problems. Even will the student solution manual (which does not have every odd #, but every other odd #, heh) I am lost. A big group of us get together for a total of 7 hours per week working on our homework with tutors and they are even lost! AHHHH. This book is horrible! Good luck to all whom have to take this course!

Great for understanding functions
Great book! It is especially good for understanding what different functions do, and how. This is very important for understanding calculus. Great examples, always linking functions with things in real life.

Frustrating book
The first half of this text seems be be a bit simple. Many of the problems are confusing at best.The authors are not very clear on what they want.Many students in my class were frustrated by this time and time again. Still other times the questions were way to easy and never really chalanged the students. Basicly the first half does not provied a good solid base for Calculus. The second half is just flat out poorly written.It leaves the students constently scraching their heads wondering what the authors want.Questions are asked in such a way as to not make sence or not to follow the chapters very well.Chapt 7 is very much like this. Bad.The faculty agrees by having to put out an additional book of their own to help provide a better understanding of Trig.
Over all this book needs to be re-thought out.A poor choise for instructors wanting their students to get a solid base so as to takle more advaced math classes.

I like it
I like pictures of people on bikes. It makes me feel better because riding mountain bikes is fun. So when I work on functions, I feel happier.

Worst Book Ever!
I use this book as a college text book for pre-Calculus.I'm sure if you could understand it, it might be good for calculus.I didn't understand it at all.I went from an A the college math calss previous to this to a C.I work very hard to understand this book (20 hrs. a week).I even went to tutors in my college and they have trouble understanding the book.They say that it takes trivial aspects from algebra and puts a major focus on them.It goes from one topic to another as you do each problem. ... Read more

Book Description

In this innovative new Linear Algebra text, award-winning educator David Poole covers vectors and vector geometry first to enable students to visualize the mathematics while they are doing matrix operations. Rather than merely doing the calculations with no understanding of the mathematics, students will be able to visualize and understand the meaning of the calculations. By seeing the mathematics and understanding the underlying geometry, students will develop mathematical maturity and learn to think abstractly. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

An Excellent Book
An excellent book. Many examples, easy to understand, with real world applications from ranging from data compression of image files to the population of predators and prey ecosystems. I hope David Poole continues to write on Calculus, PDE's, Compelex variables, and everything else. Hopefully he'll put Brown, Churchill, Kythe, Puri, and Schafferkoter in their place and out of the math text book business.

my prof switched texts and i'm glad he did!
OK. I like math. So sue me! But I was dreading taking linear algebra after talking to some friends who took it last year from the same prof as I would have. I looked at their textbook and ugh! Not really very well written.

But I signed up anyway and - surprise!! - new textbook! Linear Algebra by David Poole - what a HUGE relief! As other reviewers have said this is a GREAT LA textbook - well written, clear, good examples and pictures and fun! (really!) It's like having your prof give you his personal lecture notes with extra comments. I loved the book and loved the course.

If Prof. Poole is thinking of writing other textbooks, I'll be first in line to buy them - and can suggest what he should write next :)

The best linear algebra textbook!
(...) This is a really great book. Very clearly written with TONS of excellent examples. I really liked the diverse selection of applications too. Poole goes to great lengths to make linear algebra fun and I think he succeeds brilliantly! If you're looking for a linear algebra textbook that explains the subject clearly and makes it relevant, this is the book for you. (But where did Amazon.com get the cover photo? That's not the cover of the actual book!?)

It doesnt get better than this!
I am in my second year of university. In pursuit of a degree in math, I've been through several books but this one beats them all. The author has made an extra effort to make this very complicated subject understandable. From the clear diagrams to the examples and the exercise questions, every aspect is par excellence. The book starts from the very basic topics and fundamental concepts and covers advanced topics in glorious detail. I've had the pleasure of attending some of the author's lectures and his vast knowledge of this subject in as evident in this book as was in his lectures. If you plan to buy one linear algebra book this definitely the one to get!

Poole's Linear Algebra
What a terrific book! I recently finished taking a linear algebra course using a different textbook. If only Poole's book could have been the text for my course. The author is clearly an outstanding teacher and he writes with students in mind. The exposition is crystal clear and he actually makes linear algebra fun! Wow! Highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

A cookbook of the hottest new algorithms and cutting-edge techniques in image processing and computer vision

This amazing book/CD package puts the power of all the hottest new image processing techniques and algorithms in your hands. Based on J. R. Parker's exhaustive survey of Internet newsgroups worldwide, Algorithms for Image Processing and Computer Vision answers the most frequently asked questions with practical solutions.

Parker uses dozens of real-life examples taken from fields such as robotics, space exploration, forensic analysis, cartography, and medical diagnostics, to clearly describe the latest techniques for morphing, advanced edge detection, wavelets, texture classification, image restoration, symbol recognition, and genetic algorithms, to name just a few. And, best of all, he implements each method covered in C and provides all the source code on the CD.

For the first time, you're rescued from the hours of mind-numbing mathematical calculations it would ordinarily take to program these state-of-the-art image processing capabilities into software. At last, nonmathematicians get all the shortcuts they need for sophisticated image recognition and processing applications.

On the CD-ROM you'll find:
* Complete code for examples in the book
* A gallery of images illustrating the results of advanced techniques
* A free GNU compiler that lets you run source code on any platform
* A system for restoring damaged or blurred images
* A genetic algorithms package ... Read more

Reviews (6)

I like this book
It has source C code available, which I found is very helpful. It would be better if its code is written in C++.

Muy buena referencia
Recomiendo este libro a todos aquellos que estén trabajando en procesamiento digital de imágenes. Requiere conocimiento previo dado que el análisis matemático asociado no está descrito con suficiente profundidad en todos los temas, sin embargo describe muy bien las técnicas y alcances de las las diferentes teorías relacionadas con el procesamiento de señales. El CD que lo acompaña es de gran valor y permite fijar con mucha rapidez los logros descritos en el libro.

A great Scope
This book is very helpfull. Not only for image processing. An unsuspected use that I do to this book was use an algorithm for correct blurred images to revert effect of movil mean that produce a strain gage when one sense an compresion wave traveling throw an iron bar, and work very well. This book has an "honor place" in my library.

Eugenio Simao
Um otimo livro. Atende as expectativas teoricas e de implementacao. Os exemplos encontram-se um linguagem C. A biblioteca de algoritmos idealizada preve a utilizacao do compilador C GNU. Mas, com poucas modificacoes pode-se utilizar estes algoritmos para outros compiladores. Recomendo este livro para estudantes de graduacao como acompanhamento de disciplinas de processamento de imagens, os quais, como eu, geralmente anseiam por ver realizadas as explanacoes teoricas.

Excellent cook book of advanced IP techniques
At its best, this book is a wonderful cookbook of image processing techniques. For example the author's presentation of the Canny and Shen-Castan methods of edge detection is clear and detailed. Full C source is provided for this and all the other techniques discussed in the book. The book does not pretend to be a basic introduction to image processing -- if you do not have Castleman or Pratt or something similar on your bookshelf, you probably should not start by acquiring this book. A possible source of irritation for some readers will be the variation in depth of coverage of topics. For example, when the author discusses wavelets, the coverage is very scant and qualitative. It is well done, but quite different in kind from the aforementioned coverage of advanced edge detection techniques. Similarly, the author will cover specific aspects of image processing, such as motion blur for an image, in the context of a rather general discussion of image restoration. In short, the book seems to reflect the author's interests more than attempting to be an objective coverage of the current state of the art in image processing. Nonetheless, the high quality of the information that the author provides and the bibliography to further coverage of the given topics are well worth the price of the book. You just need to approach it on the author's terms rather than on a preconceived notion of what you should get out of the book. ... Read more

Book Description

Designed to be accessible, this book develops a thorough, functional understanding of mathematical concepts in preparation for their application in other areas. Coverage concentrates on developing concepts and ideas followed immediately by developing computational skills and problem solving. This book features a collection of important topics from mathematics of finance, linear algebra, linear programming, probability, and statistics, with an emphasis on cross-discipline principles and practices. For the professional who wants to acquire essential mathematical tools for application in business, economics, and the life and social sciences.

Reviews (7)

Sound choice for a finite math textbook
This is a very sound choice as a textbook for a course in finite mathematics. The coverage is appropriate, the level suitable for the non-math major, the explanations are excellent and the authors take the title seriously.
The topics are covered in the following order:

* Elementary functions and their graphs.
* The mathematics of finance.
* Matrices and systems of linear equations.
* Linear inequalities and linear programming.
* Logic, set theory and basic counting.
* Probability and probability distributions.
* Basic game and decision theory.
* Markov chains.

There are many exercises and at the end of each section there is a set of basic exercises followed by a collection of applied problems. The set of applied problems is split into three categories: business & economics, life sciences and social sciences. Since finite mathematics is often a preparation for students to work in these fields, this format is what impressed me the most. With all of these "real world" problems to work as part of their study, no student using this book could ever legitimately say that they see no purpose to their studies. Solutions to the odd-numbered problems are included.
I came into contact with this book after my choice of textbook was irrevocable. Had I seen it earlier, it would have been the one I used.

Many exercises in economics, life and the social sciences
This is a very sound choice as a textbook for a course in finite mathematics. The coverage is appropriate, the level suitable for the non-math major, the explanations are excellent and the authors take the title seriously.
The topics are covered in the following order:

* Elementary functions and their graphs.
* The mathematics of finance.
* Matrices and systems of linear equations.
* Linear inequalities and linear programming.
* Logic, set theory and basic counting.
* Probability and probability distributions.
* Basic game and decision theory.
* Markov chains.

There are many exercises and at the end of each section there is a set of basic exercises followed by a collection of applied problems. The set of applied problems is split into three categories: business & economics, life sciences and social sciences. Since finite mathematics is often a preparation for students to work in these fields, this format is what impressed me the most. With all of these "real world" problems to work as part of their study, no student using this book could ever legitimately say that they see no purpose to their studies. Solutions to the odd-numbered problems are included.
I came into contact with this book after my choice of textbook was irrevocable. Had I seen it earlier, it would have been the one I used.

Not user friendly
I am currently using this book for my college course. Examples
are not clear, and many steps missed. Per our instructor alot of the answers in the back are inaccurate. I do not recommend this book for students whom are not well versed in algebra

This finite math book really counts!!
I recommend this book in a heartbeat to anyone taking an introductory college-level mathematics course. I've used this book in courses that I've taught and students love it! Yes, there is a lot of material, but no, who says you have to read every page? It is also a great mathematics refresher! Furthermore, it covers many aspects of the mathematics of finance.

Excellent Text!
I sinmply loved the flow of this text! It mader so much sense to me the way the book went from one concept to the other! Highly recommended if you want to really learn and not "slide" through. ... Read more

Book Description

The Angel Series continues to offer proven pedagogy, sound exercise sets and superior user support. An emphasis on the practical applications of algebra motivates readers and encourages them to see algebra as an important part of their daily lives. The user–friendly writing style uses short, clear sentences and easy–to–understand language, and the outstanding pedagogical program makes the material easy to follow and comprehend. The new editions continue to place a strong emphasis on problem solving.Real Numbers; Solving Linear Equations and Inequities; Formulas and Applications of Algebra; Graphing Linear Equations; Systems of Linear Equations; Exponents and Polynominals; Factoring; Rational Expressions and Equations; Roots and Radicals; and Quadtratic Equations.For any professional needing to apply algebra to their work. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Elementary Algebra
Great book! I have used this book for class and and it had proven to be very efficiant. The lessons are easy to follow and it provides adequate examples for algebra. ... Read more

Book Description

Helping students grasp the "why" of algebra through patient explanations, Hirsch and Goodman gradually build students' confidence without sacrificing rigor. To help students move beyond the "how" of algebra (computational proficiency) to the "why" (conceptual understanding), the authors introduce topics at an elementary level and return to them at increasing levels of complexity. Their gradual introduction of concepts, rules, and definitions through a wealth of illustrative examples - both numerical and algebraic-helps students compare and contrast related ideas and understand the sometimes subtle distinctions among a variety of situations. This author team carefully prepares students to succeed in higher level mathematics. ... Read more

Book Description

ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS WITH MATLAB® is written for engineers and engineering students who are interested in applying MATLAB® to solve practical engineering problems. The book emphasizes mathematical principles, not computations, with MATLAB® employed as a tool for analysis that shows how engineering problems are defined and solved. The book features complete MATLAB® integration throughout, abundant examples which show real practical applications, and end-of-chapter problems that reinforce techniques. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent book, but missing import parts for Electronics/Com
This is an excellent book for studying advanced math. Important concepts clearly explained with good matlab examples. But I was surprised to find this book titled "Engineering Math" with the miss out of some thing like probability and random variables which are of the critical importance for Electronics/Communications students.

Deserves 6 stars
If you are not already a superuser of MATLAB or a mathematician and want to choose one single book on MATLAB that also brings a solid math base, this is the one. The authors have chosen the subjects very well, with emphasys on the use of mathematical principles coupled with the use of the computing power offered by MATLAB.

In addition to a sound presentation of concepts - without however being extensive (or boring) on theoretical details that probably would not be relevant - this book addresses most areas of University Math (Physical Sciences undergraduate curriculum) with a wealth of good practical programming examples. I specially liked the chapters on Eigenvectors and Eigenvalues, those on Differential equations, Fourier analysis and the simple but very clear and didatic one on Discrete sytems.

In summary, although not a complete text, the subjects addressed in this book are so well presented that it can be forgiven for not covering some areas (like complex variables and calculus of variations, to name only two). There is no waste of pages in this book, but as a suggestion for future enhancement I would mention the inclusion of a chapter dedicated to exploring the graphing power available in MATLAB.

Also as a reference, for most needs you'll probably be able to start doing something productive right away after reading. Well worth its price!

Excellent reference for engineers
This is an excellent reference book not only for matlab, also an excellent reference book for the basic concepts such as Fourier Analysis. I think any engineers who work in electric design filed must have a copy. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

good books never have thousand pages
This book talks about multivariable calculus that is not included in high school curriculum. The book is concise but covers all the thing I want to know. It is not bulky book that makes you look good; it will lead you to be good at calculus. Of course please master your skill in single variable calculus before trying this one.

Not as advanced as it claims
It is good and clear book. Excellent for undergrad students who want to dig into calculus a bit deeper. But it is too easy for an advanced undergrad or a grad student in any technical field. I recommend the books published by Springer.

I adore the author
Any student who is taking analysis/advanced calculus course should read chapter 2 of this book, especially if he is confused or is struggling on the excellent but relatively abstract/concise texts of Rudin, Apostal, Bartle, Marsden et al. I've never seen a book which can explain the concept of Jacobian and Inplicit function theory in such a clear way!!

More Than I Could Have Expected
This book is simply the best that I have found for math texts. Kaplan does not expect much from the reader; he explains basically everything besides Calculus I material. Kaplan's writing is lively and is (relatively) easy to read. He gets to the point and keeps everything easy to follow. I am still in awe about how much material (look below) he was able to fit into this relatively small book and still keep it so clear. The examples are clear and concise. The problems in the book compliment the understanding of the material; they start out easy and guide the reader to do more difficult problems. This book is MORE THAN SUFFICIENT FOR SELF-STUDY.

Contents: Linear Algebra, Partial Derivatives, Vector Calculus, Multiple Integrals, Sequences and Series, Fourier Series, Complex Variables, and Ordinary/Partial Differential Equations. This is a conservative list.

The price may appear steep, but the content and clarity of this book more than make up for it.

The perfect book
Although my regular textbook is excellent(Larson, Calculus,7th edtion), but there are just ideas and theories which are not explained or expanded. I love Kaplan's Advanced Calculus for the following reasons:
1. It is very logical, everything goes step by step. If there is anything you have not learned or have forgotten, he refers you to specific earlier sections. And if there is something he does not explain, he refers you to other resourses.
2. The book is lean and super clean. Although I do appreciate our regular textbooks's wordiness which is great for a beginner like me, I also love reading this book which goes straight to the core.
3. While some books look lean but are actually dry and really hard to chew, this book is easy to follow. And it really gives you a feeling that you are learning math, you are not just learning some techniques.
4. Even though there are a couple of out of date notations like a reviewer has pointed out, like he writes "ln" as "log", but it really does not interfere reading and understanding.
In short, the book is a gem, every page is worth its paper. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Informative, but gets a little confusing
I am currently an eigth grader using this book in the challengers program at my school. It is an informative textbook, filled with lots of examples on how to solve mixture problems, polynomials, etc. But, I warn you, if you do not master the concepts in the previous chapters, you will have a hard time understanding the material from Chapter 7 on.

Hard to Understand
When I recieved this book from my school, I thought it would explain everything step by step. But to my conclusion, I barely understood it. When the textbook does'nt explain things good, how is the student supposed to understand it? I do not reccomend this book. But I do recccomend Algebra 1 Concepts and Skills.

A Real Algebra Book
This is one of only a handful of books that actually covers Algebra 1 in detail, and in an order that builds a strong foundation along the way. Sure, there will be students who find this book hard to understand -- they are the ones who are not really ready for algebra and should be either taking pre-algebra or one of the many "algebra lite" books that are available. Well-prepared students will find this book a great resource, and should find themselves extremely well-prepared for future classes in mathematics.

It is arguably one of the best algebra books available, and is one of the top algebra textbooks as rated by Mathematically Correct, a group that is concerned with the quality of mathematics instruction in California (and beyond).

Undecipherable
When reading a textbook, it is essential that the student has a clear understanding of whatever the book is trying to teach, whether it's history, biology, or algebra. If the language in the book isn't concise and easy to understand, there is a good chance that the student will not grasp what the book is saying. Although I am an intelligent math student, I thought that "Algebra: Structure and Method: Book 1" was extremely difficult to interpret. This book was the text for my eighth grade Algebra I course; on days when I was absent from school and was forced to read the textbook to learn what I missed in class, I absolutely could not complete the homework without first having the teacher explain it to me. I believe that my experience in Algebra I reflects poorly on this book since it's only basic algebra, not rocket science -- if a teacher can explain it orally, a textbook should be able to teach the concepts as well. The main thing that is wrong with the lessons in this book is that the examples are not always clear; several steps are often combined without directions telling the student how the book arrived at the solution. In addition to that, new lessons are often introduced with only the bare minimum of information describing how to work the problems. My Geometry book from last year went into a great deal of explanation at the beginning of each lesson in order to describe the new information; my Algebra book did not. I understood the Geometry with out my teacher's help, but I could not understand the Algebra. If a student doesn't have an excellent Algebra teacher and gets stuck with this textbook, I know that it will be very hard for him or her to learn Algebra. Also, if a homeschooled student is using this book and his or her parent is not proficient in Algebra, chances are good that the student will be completely lost. For these reasons, I advise school districts and persons attempting to learn Algebra on their own to look for a textbook that is more comprehensible than this one. Use of this textbook is far from a guarantee of success. In fact, it is only a guarantee of one thing: a very frustrating experience in learning mathematics.

The book seems very exciting even for me who afraids of math
My son says: "the book seems very exciting even for me who afraids of math" This must be important! My son will start to the 6th grade this year in a Turkish school in Istanbul. We bought this book for ... and when I see the actual price at ... I got really angry!!! Who gets the extra money? The school?
But I like the book. ... Read more

Book Description

Stewart's CALCULUS: EARLY TRANSCENDENTALS, Fifth Edition has the mathematical precision, accuracy, clarity of exposition and outstanding examples and problem sets that have characterized the first four editions. Stewart retains the focus on problem solving and the pedagogical system that has made the book a favorite of students and instructors in a wide variety of colleges and universities throughout the world. The structure of CALCULUS: EARLY TRANSCENDENTALS, Fifth Edition, remains largely unchanged, the sole exception being that the review of inverse trigonometric functions has been moved from an appendix to Section 1.6. Stewart has made hundreds of small improvements: new examples, additional steps in existing examples, updating of data in existing examples and exercises, new phrases and margin notes to clarify the exposition, references to other sources and web sites, redrawn art, and references to the TEC CD (Tools for Enriching Calculus). These refinements ensure that students and instructors using this text are using the best resource available. The number of pages in the book, however, remains unchanged from the 4th edition. This edition is complemented with and expanded array of supplementary material for both students and instructors.These best-selling texts differ from CALCULUS, Fifth Edition in that the exponential and logarithmic functions are covered earlier. In the Fifth Edition of CALCULUS, EARLY TRANSCENDENTALS these functions are introduced in the first chapter and their limits and derivatives are found in Chapters 2 and 3 at the same time as polynomials and other elementary functions. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent Textbook
This book was very helpful and insightful towards me learning calculus. The book was very understandable and a better investment then buying the Single Variable book. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Fantastic introduction to analysis
I am using another author's --Strichartz-- garbage text for an analysis course at Cornell.I saw this book at a local B&N near my home, and I immediately saw how superior it was to Strichartz's.This book keeps the beginner of analysis in mind, and the proofs of theorems are sharp and to the point.Plenty of exercises and problems to reinforce the material.The text includes a nice introduction to point-set topology and metric spaces.A++

A great 1-term-undergraduate text in Analysis
This book is a great introduction of the elements of real analysis.However the book chooses some awkward notation at times and skips pertinant depth where needed.My advice is to use as a supplement to a deeper text in analyis such as Maxwell Rosenlicht's, "An introduction to Analyis," Fitzpatrick's, "Advanced Calculus,"or the very terse Walter Rudin, "An Introduction to Mathematical Analyis."The book concludes before addressing multivariate analysis and leaves much needed topological aspect to the very end, this is why I recommend the book as a first-term undergraduate text in analyis in conjuction with my recommendation of Rosenlicht's text.Although, altogether very readable.

Real Analysis: A First Course in How to Think
Taking a course in Real Analysis from the author himself (Russell Gordon, Whitman College) is quite an experience, especially when the man's grading style is described as, "Take no prisoners."However, the book, like the author, is excellent and thoroughly challenges the intellect. Essentially a proof of calculus, the work details the majority of the theorems first-year calculus students are told just to accept and not question.After a grueling semester, one should feel confident about pursuing further studies in mathematics, as the text presents these (dare I say) "elementary" concepts in a clear, organized fashion.I only have one quibble: there should be a sticker on the cover that reads, "WARNING: Thinking Required," just in case the title itself didn't clue you in. ... Read more

Book Description

This book takes a rigorous approach to, and therefore creates a deeper understanding of, the usual topics handled in one-dimensional calculus--limits, continuity, differentiation, integration, and infinite series. The text was designed to bridge the gap between intuitive calculus courses normally offered at the undergraduate level and the sophisticated analysis courses offered at the senior or graduate level. The author wrote the book with two goals in mind: the development of a rigorous foundation for the basic topics of analysis, and the less tangible acquisition of an accurate intuitive feeling for analysis. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Excellent Introduction
I believe the author has given students a wonderful text for the beginning of analysis.I disagree with the student who stated that the proofs are unclear.When I took this class last fall, all of the proofs were not clear in the beginning but with a little clarifying by my professor, they quickly became understandable.The problems at the end of the sections are designed to help students fully understand the chapter and while some of the problems require a lot of extra work, they are not impossible.It seems to me if you gave this book a bad review, it was because you were unwilling to put forth the time and effort to fully understand the material.This book was extremely helpful and guided the class in a clear and concise manner.

Extremely unclear
As a math major, I am of course interested in the subject of Real Analysis. But I cannot agree with the other reviews in that the book is very UNACCESSIBLE to undergraduates! I have poured through the first 3 chapters until I almost have them memorized and the concepts are NOT CLEAR. Instead of explaining what is going on, the author rambles on about the "beauty" of his subject and how "we" as students should "carefully" digest the ideas. The examples and proofs are NOT clear and are NOTHING like the HW problems! In fact the proofs are so incomplete, that proving them in the fashion that the author does, does not convince my professor??? This book is a BIG waste of over $100 and a class that I might have enjoyed if the author could see outside of his ego and stop trying to show off to undergraduates who do not know the subject yet!

Great book by Great Guru
In my college days ,i found Edward D gaughan's 'Introduction to Analysis',amidst pile of other books.I read the preface countless times.With his words of encouragement and admonishment ,writer makes you more comfortable ,in your long journey ofMathematics which is real and abstract at once!! I liked this book;After a decade still i fondly remember this book !!I recommend this book whole heartedly, to any one who is sincere in his approach and wants to become first rate mathematician.

Excellent
At first glance, the book appears too thin.But once you've delved a few pages into it, you immediately recognize that the author has simply mastered the art of brevity - while remainining eminently readable.The book covers all the material needed for an undergraduate analysis course - and covers it extremely well.The proofs are easy to follow and extremely instructive, so that the book can also be used in a "Bridge to Advanced Mathematics" or "How to do Proofs" that some schools offer to their math majors to ease the transition from problem-based lower-division courses to proof-based upper-division courses.

A Good, Rigorous Introduction to Analysis
I used this book for an undergraduate course in Analysis and was pleased with it. It is well-organized with poignant examples. The physical construction of the book, however, proved not to be as good as the contentand it is quite worn. ... Read more

Book Description

Widely acclaimed algebra text. This book is designed to give the reader insight into the power and beauty that accrues from a rich interplay between different areas of mathematics. The book carefully develops the theory of different algebraic structures, beginning from basic definitions to some in-depth results, using numerous examples and exercises to aid the reader's understanding. In this way, readers gain an appreciation for how mathematical structures and their interplay lead to powerful results and insights in a number of different settings.
* The emphasis throughout has been to motivate the introduction and development of important algebraic concepts using as many examples as possible. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

You'll get a lot of mileage out of it
Most of the reviews have been positive, and basically explain the strengths of the book, but I thought some would appreciate hearing what someone, like me, who has gone through most of the material in the book over the last three and half years, would say.

This is the only book I bought as an undergraduate that I still look at today. All my other undergrad texts are either stored away somewhere or gather dust on my bookshelf. The reason is simple: Dummit and Foote has stocked in one book almost all the basic algebra that is required for my study of 3-manifold theory. I suspect this is true of other fields also. By "basic algebra" I mean the key ideas and examples that are used in many different areas of mathematics.

Just recently, I needed to pick up some algebraic geometry in order to understand SL(2, C) character varieties. As usual, I went to my Dummit and Foote and found what I needed (for the most part). And also as usual, I will need to supplement that knowledge with some more advanced books.

A couple things about this book annoy me though: 1) the price -- however, I have certainly gotten my money's worth out of it over the years, so I can't really complain 2) Initially when I first got the book, the wealth of material in the book appeared intimidating and esoteric to me; however, nowadays I would say there isn't *enough* in this book. Oftentimes it seems that I get just a taste before the discussion of a topic ends. On the other hand, I am realistic, so I realize that this book is not meant to be encyclopedic but to introduce the reader to the more advanced topics.

I've yet to see another book that carries all the topics of this one, and remains fairly reader-friendly (as this one does).

This book is rigorous, dense, and lacks answers to exercises
It is a strong, rigorous introduction to abstract algebra, but I find it too intense for most undergraduates to fully grasp without studying for extraordinary amounts of time. None of the exercises have answers provided. so it isn't very useful for self-study. It is abstract in its very quintessence: it gives no examples of applications of the theorems. If you don't have a significant background in mathematical proofs and abstract logic, choose a more accessible text. But, if you can handle the level of rigor and abstraction, the text is very rewarding.

Comprehensive book
I'm a graduate student in math. We used this book for the basic year-long abstract algebra sequence: group theory, chapters 1-4 and some of chapter 5; ring/field/galois theory chapters 7-9, 13-14. Some of my fellow students took a module theory course which was at least partially based off chapters 10 and (I think) 11. I'm sure more advanced courses could easily be based off chapters 15-end. Considering the cost of university books, I consider it very nice to buy one book for essentially 3+ courses.

The exercises in some sections are very diverse. My group theory professor made us do a huge number of them, and now I am amazed at how often I see questions similar to those from Dummit-Foote show up on past qualifier exams from many different universities. Regarding lack of answers in the back...well, you shouldn't need too many, and if you get really stuck, that's what the professor is for. And if you're learning it on your own then I'm thinking you should be brainy enough not to need answers!

The text itself is very readable and complete.

I don't think I'd recommend this as an undergrad textbook, although I've no doubt that there are some clever undergrads who could learn from it. I used Herstein's "Topics in Algebra" for my intro-to-abstract course as an undergrad. Herstein is designed to be introductory in nature, though still a wonderful book, while DF is more encyclopedic.

I do have one complaint though: the binding in DF started to crack and pages started to fall out near the end of its first semester of use. It did see some moderate backpack use but not too much, certainly less than many other books I've had in the past. So take care of it!

Good intro to the subject
While I haven't read this book beyond the group theory chapters, it has proven invaluable for me already. The writing is clear and flows very well, particularly due to good ordering of topics. The introduction of each concept is followed by a wealth of examples, never leaving the reader completely lost on the purpose of whatever concept is being studied.

However, do not expect to grasp concepts immeadiately unless you have a practical application to relate to (and that's general advice for anyone studying abstract algebra). Reading this hand in hand with a number theory book has helped me immensely, not to mention that number theory is a worthy topic of study on its own.

Overall, the book was certainly worth its price, and I haven't even read a significant chunk of it yet!

Overall, one of the best algebra books out there!
Well, I feel that I should add to the long list of affirmative reviews. Why, I don't know? If you want a book that will take you from the basics of Abstract algebra to the advanced level, then buy this book, you won't regret it. It is a little more terse than, say, J. Gallian's, but I think that that problem can be overcome without too much difficulty. It doesn't have the answers in the back, but if this is your first serious proof-based math course, then you need to start breaking that habit anyway. (Most of the answers one finds in advanced math books are usually the solutions to the hardest approach to solving the problem.)

If you buy this book, you won't have to buy another one for at least a year to a year and a half. ... Read more

Book Description

Designed for the three-semester engineering calculus sequence, Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions offers fully integrated coverage of exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions throughout the first semester, within the hallmark balanced approach of the Larson team. A rich variety of applications encountered earlier in the course prepares students for concurrent physics, chemistry, and engineering courses. This edition features nearly 10,000 diverse and flexible exercises, carefully graded in sets progressing from skill-development problems to more rigorous application and proof problems.

• P.S. Problem Solving sections—thought-provoking and challenging exercises at the end of each chapter—require students to use a variety of problem-solving skills as they work with calculus concepts.
• Getting at the Concept exercises, boxed and titled for easy reference, check a student's understanding of the basic concepts of each section.
• Think About It conceptual exercises require students to use their critical-thinking skills and help them develop an intuitive understanding of the underlying theory of the calculus.
• Multi-part Modeling Data questions ask students to find and interpret mathematical models to fit real-life data, often through the use of a graphing utility.
• Section Projects, extended applications at the end of selected exercise sets, can be assigned to individual students or used in a collaborative or peer-assisted learning environment.
• Writing Exercises help students develop reasoning skills and discuss mathematical concepts.
• True or False Exercises in many exercise sets help students focus on concepts, common errors, and the correct statements of definitions and theorems.
• Review Exercises, now grouped and correlated by text section, provide students with a more effective study tool, enabling them to target the concepts they need to review.
• Integrated use of technology (optional and identified by an icon) encourages students to use a graphing utility or computer algebra system as a tool for exploration, discovery, and problem solving.
• Interactive Calculus Early Transcendental Functions 3.0 CD-ROM and Internet Calculus Early Transcendental Functions 2.0 web site, referred to in the text by an "IC" icon, offer enhanced opportunities for exploration and visualization using the program itself and/or a computer algebra system.
• CAS Examples, also identified in the text by an icon, offer opportunities for interactive exploration using Maple, Mathcad, Mathematica, or Derive.
• Motivating the Chapter, data-driven, chapter-opening applications, explore the concepts to be covered in the chapter in the context of a real-world setting. Following a short introduction, open-ended questions guide the students through an introduction to the main themes of the chapter.
• More than 1000 examples in the Third Edition enhance the usefulness of the text as a study tool for all types of learners. Each example is titled for easy reference and many offer detailed solutions, often with annotations, presented graphically, analytically, and/or numerically to provide further insight into mathematical concepts.

Reviews (5)

If you already know calculus ......
I used this book in online Calculus I & II courses. Without additional explanation it was nearly impossible to learn calculus strictly from the text. In a classroom setting with a LOT of additonal instruction, it might have served its purpose.

used this book after 5 year break from Calc I
This book was the textbook for a Calc 2 class that I took.It had been a long time since I took calc 1, and had forgotten most of the information.This book did a nice job of providing clear examples, and thoughtful exercises.It is one of the most readable math books that I have read (and there are a lot of bad ones out there).I would strongly recommend getting the answer guide also, since the answers in the book do not show how the problem was solved.Sometimes your answer could be correct, but appears different than the answer in the back because of the algebra involved.

Excellent Calculus Book
I'm studying my major and I really need to learn Calculus. Even this book is for people who have studied this subject before it makes you think and imagine what you are doing. Sometimes it explains shortly some chapters, but it helps you to improve your skill and to learn by the way of thinking and imagination. I'll recommend this book for everyone who likes Math (specially Calculus) and who really wants to learn it well. In my own opinion is a nice book and what makes it special is the MATHEMATICA sofware it uses as well as it teaches you Calculus. If I have someday to teach Calculus I will use this book. The only problem... is ... as the MATHEMATICA software.

From a students perspective
This book would be good for someone who already knows calculus and wants to refresh their skills.In the mathmatical examples there are gaps where more explination is needed.If The book where more thorough in its explinations then the student could learn the subject with a lot less trouble.

The Best of the Best
I have taught calculus for over 20 years, from about half a dozen books:Thomas, Swokowski, Anton, Stewart, and others. Two years ago our universityadopted the 6th Edition of Larson. As a pedagodical tool, this text is headand shoulders about all the others. The text uses abundand graphics, aclear design, concise writing, thoughtful examples, and carefully craftedexercises to make calculus accessible to students. I have never had so manystudents volunteer compliments about a text. This text is simply the"best of the best." ... Read more

Book Description

An easy to understand guide to matrix algebra and its uses in statistical analysis. Presents material in an explanatory style instead of the formal theorem-proof format; the only background necessary is high school algebra. The self-contained text includes numerous applied illustrations, numerical examples, and exercises. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Definitively a classic
This is an excellent introductory book, although mostly oriented to people with a reasonably good mathematical background. Searle covers most, if not all, the matrix algebra that you may need to fully understand applications of mixed linear models. Chapters one to eight cover the essential operations (addition, multiplication, determinants, etc) as well as more advanced concepts (rank, canonical forms, inverse, etc). The rest of the book (chapters nine to fifteen) covers applications to statistics as well as advanced topics that can help you to understand how do some of the statistical packages work inside. The only mathematics book that I have read from cover to cover. Definitively a classic. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Algebra 1 or Calculators for the Stupid?
This book pretends to be an Algebra 1 textbook, but is more of a calculator instruction manual. A child who completes a course based upon this book will be highly proficient in the use of his or her calculator, but will not have gained an iota of mathmatical skill or knowledge. If you are considering this book, I suggest you pull the instruction book from the box your calculator came in, it is just as useful and not near as heavy. On the upside, the book has lots of pretty colors.

Great Book!
I am student from Oklahoma. I have used this book in our Algebra I class. This book is truly a terrific book. This book has real-life situations and great examples! If you are planning to buy this book than absolutely do. After you use this book you won't want to buy any other. Heath Algebra I. A book designed for the modern world.

Perfect!
I as a student had Saxton math books. I didn't like them very much. When I got into High School we were introduced into the Heath mathematics course. These books have real - life applications and real life equations in them. They also get you ready for the math courses you take in College. ... Read more

Book Description

Tried and true, Gustafson and Frisk's BEGINNING AND INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA teaches solid mathematical skills while supporting the student with careful pedagogy. This text helps students develop the ability to synthesize and conceptualize material by thoroughly integrating coverage of graphing and problem solving without sacrificing manipulative skills. Each book in this series maintains the authors' proven style through clear, no-nonsense explanations, as well as the mathematical accuracy and rigor that only Gustafson and Frisk can deliver. The text's clearly useful applications emphasize problem solving to effectively develop the skills students need for future mathematics courses, such as college algebra, and for real life. BEGINNING AND INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA is the ideal text for professors who want to eliminate the significant overlap of topics found in separate beginning and intermediate algebra texts. The Fourth Edition of BEGINNING AND INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA also features a robust suite of online course management, testing, and tutorial resources for instructors and students. This includes BCA/iLrn Testing and Tutorial, vMentor live online tutoring, the Interactive Video Skillbuilder CD-ROM with MathCue, a Book Companion Web Site featuring online graphing calculator resources, and The Learning Equation (TLE), powered by BCA/iLrn. TLE provides a complete courseware package, featuring a diagnostic tool that gives instructors the capability to create individualized study plans. With TLE, a cohesive, focused study plan can be put together to help each student succeed in math. ... Read more