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Ask HN: How can I discover math?

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Re: Ask HN: How can I discover math?

#21
"Discovering math", depending on what you mean, could be setting the bar pretty high. Memorizing formula is not what mathematics is about, but you're unlikely to get very far if you just "play with numbers". To learn mathematics and to think mathematically, you still need a structured environment: Lockhart's complaint is that modern (K-12) math teachers neither have that knowledge nor the ability to provide that structure.

If I were you, I'd go to where that knowledge does get taught: in undergraduate mathematics classes. That usually starts with some rigorous calculus (I second the recommendation for Spivak), real analysis (which might seem hopelessly unmotivated if you don't know/remember much calculus), linear algebra or abstract algebra, or discrete math. Depends on what you're interested.

Reading mathematics is hard. Google around for advice. Do lots of problems, which generally means finding proofs. This would very well fit the definition of "discovering mathematics".

Re: Ask HN: How can I discover math?

#22
post #9
post #3

Get "The Princeton Companion to Mathematics" - http://press.princeton.edu/titles/8350.html

Seriously? Your reply to "I'm trying to teach myself K-12 math" is "find out what mathematicians think about, instead"? My guess: you are trolling or have never read the Princeton Companion.

I'm suggesting it because, whatever practical tutorials the poster is looking for, the Companion will make for fascinating reading.

When I was in school and plodding through physics and chemistry class, I was wildly excited by other, more advanced books, which I devoured. Ditto for biology.

I wish the Companion was out then, for I would have loved it (although, my love for mathematics wasn't in any way diminished).

Sure, the book is not going to teach you K-12 stuff, but it is almost like standing on the edge of mountain, giving you a vista of the wonderful world of math.

Re: Ask HN: How can I discover math?

#23
post #3

Get "The Princeton Companion to Mathematics" - http://press.princeton.edu/titles/8350.html

Thanks for the link to this. Not that I think this book is the best thing for the OP (although he/she may enjoy it), but this is just the kind of book that I would like to read.
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