What is Textbooks: Definition and 460 Discussions

A textbook is a book containing a comprehensive compilation of content in a branch of study with the intention of explaining it. Textbook are produced to meet the needs of educators, usually at educational institutions. Schoolbooks are textbooks and other books used in schools. Today, many textbooks are published in both print and digital formats.

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  1. S

    What are the best textbooks for Real Analysis?

    So I just wanted to hear about other people's experiences with undergraduate (and introductory graduate) analysis textbooks. There are the standards and some new great texts as well. Which are your favorite? Recommendations? Kenneth Ross: The theory of Calculus, Elementary Analysis. Very...
  2. Z

    Studying Why do I find engineering math textbooks much more understandable?

    In many of the topics in math i hav learned so far, i just found that engin textbooks such as <advanced engin math> are much more understandable and yet covering similar depth of contents than mathematic methods book such as aftken&weber which my teacher choose as reference book for e course. I...
  3. M

    Criminal offences in maths textbooks

    Another vent of frustration: I hereby nominate the three worst offences committed in maths textbooks as 0. Elementary textbooks asserting a 'fact' that is clearly wrong and going to lead to confusion at a later date. Example: you cannot square root negative numbers. It takes a huge amount...
  4. P

    Studying How can i obtain the instructor's solutions manual to textbooks?

    I think having them along with me would be excellent supplements. how can i obtain my own personal copy if they are not readily available on ebay or amazon? specifically, i am looking for an instructor's solutions manual to "chemistry" by martin silberberg.
  5. J

    Mathematica Mathematical methods for physics textbooks?

    I was looking for a decent, broad-ranged mathematical textbook oriented towards physics students. I'm interested in "Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences" by Mary Boas (over Arfken's book) and was wondering if any of you have any advice. [BTW - I only have seriously studied through...
  6. K

    Studying Why are textbooks in math and science so bad?

    I am talking about upper and lower division textbook in mathematics and physics. Why are they in geneal so hard to understand, and so low quality anyways? This is not just an attitude for the intellectually inferior, but something i repeat heard from my own professors in mathematics, and...
  7. cronxeh

    Good Human Anatomy and Physiology textbooks

    Can anyone recommend a good textbook on A&P? I've seen a few on amazon but it did not quite have a feel to it. Also the Schaum's outline of Human A&P 2nd edition is over 10 years old This one https://www.amazon.com/dp/0805359095/?tag=pfamazon01-20 looks promising. Anyone have anything...
  8. E

    The Best Textbooks for Self-Study Thread

    Hi, I notice that there are many self-study students here on PF so I thought it'd be a good idea to make a quick reference of great books. Please add on as I'm currently only at the precalculus level. These books should assume relatively little to no prerequisite knowledge, explain concepts...
  9. T

    Must haves classic textbooks?

    "must haves" classic textbooks? So, what are the must have books for a physics person?... I mean what would be the PERFECT collection of classic physics textbooks? If you can chose a set of physics books on your bookshelf, what would the ones that you absolutely need to have? I know that...
  10. A

    Which Textbooks Were Your Most Memorable?

    I asked my differential geometry professor, and he said Spivak's Calculus on Manifolds and Dugundji's Topology. He said those books gave him the foundation that shaped him into what he is now. Please mention your most inspiring textbooks, which you swear by to this day.
  11. T

    Studying Free Downloadable Math and Physics Textbooks

    i'm so surprised at all the hundreds of free downloadable math and physics textbooks at freescience (e.g. http://www.freescience.info/books.php?id=4&PHPSESSID=c3046af36f33033bc738fa34f64005be , covering almost every university level and even graduate level topic, with professional typesetting...
  12. T

    Why Do Different Math Textbooks Use Varying Definitions and Notations?

    i liked the posts i read about how some people here learned calculus at a young age, so here i don't feel as isolated as from my 14 year old friends. i tried teaching myself calculus at age 11 with help from my dad, but had difficulty because i had to learn trig and factoring trinomials first...
  13. C

    Declining standards in textbooks.

    has anyone else noticed this trend? It seems like every new edition that comes out has been dumbed down more than the last one, and expects less from the reader. I noticed this in the thread on haliday and resnick, the older editions are spoken og in high regard, while practically every...
  14. M

    Best books that AREN'T textbooks

    I know how much people love textbooks and shun anything that isn't completely dry and rigorous, but sometimes I like to read books that will give me a general appreciation of physics and the world around me instead of derivations of equations. So, can anyone list some "must reads" - old or new -...
  15. D

    Are both my textbooks wrong about banked tracks.

    a car of mass m is traveling around a banked track. if F is the friction force up the track and x is the angle of the track I say F= mg sin(x)- mv^2/r cos(x) N = mg cos(x) + mv^2/r sin(x) but both my books say F= mg sin(x)- mv^2/r cos(x) N = mg cos(x) - mv^2/r sin(x)
  16. L

    Studying Recommend me some textbooks for self study

    OK, I want to self study classical EM in greater depth than my electromagnetics course, and I plan on working through Jackson (I am currently an undergrad). I want to get into the relativistic treatment of the subject. However, to properly tackle this, I feel my mathematics background is...
  17. L

    Where Can I Find Good Physics Textbooks?

    Where an I find some good physics books. I've looked at bookstores but I'm not sure if they provide adequate information as if I were reading one from college.If those aren't adequate is there a place I can bu actual textbooks liek at college?
  18. S

    Studying Spivak: Calculus on Manifolds & Diff Geom, Worth It?

    After studying Calculus by Spivak, I was enlightened by his writing style. Just wondering is his books "Calculus on Manifolds" and "Introduction to Differential Geometry Volume 1" worth purchasing if i plan to study diff geom?
  19. Simfish

    Studying Self-Studying Higher Level Math, Physics & Chemistry: Resources & Textbooks

    http://joshua.smcvt.edu/linalg.html/ Something like the above textbook, with plenty of detailed solutions to all of the problems. The thing is, as you go higher in level, you also find fewer solutions manuals and study guides that can make studying higher level subjects far easier. So does...
  20. D

    Understanding Delta Epsilon Proofs: Recommended Calc Textbooks

    Can anyone recommend me a book that better explains delta epsilon proofs. We skimmed it in beginning calc class and I would like to understand it better. Also I would like to know if there are any good books out there for learning calc. I do not like the stewart textbook we are using that...
  21. M

    Studying Where Can I Find and Purchase Cheap International Edition Textbooks Online?

    There are "Low Price" Editions and "International" Editions of textbooks that are equivalent to the editions printed in the US, except that they are much CHEAPER in every sense of the word. I would like to ask if anyone knows where I can find a listing of these books and possibly purchase them...
  22. MathematicalPhysicist

    Studying Effective Learning Strategies: Textbooks vs. Lecture Notes?

    how do you learn? through reading and summarizing from your textbook or by overlooking again at the lecture notes? i use the former, and from the lecture notes i see what i should emphasize more on my reading the textbook.
  23. S

    Real Analysis Textbooks - What are the Best Options?

    I'm planning to learn real analysis in the up and coming holidays, anybody have any good suggestions on which textbooks will be useful? I've heard good comments about Baby Rudin, is this true?
  24. S

    Recurring Science Misconceptions In K-6 Textbooks

    http://www.amasci.com/miscon/miscon4.html Doesn't look like crackpottery(when I first saw it looked like it was). It's a good list. Is it correct on all of things(the sight does amit that it's not 100% correct.)
  25. T

    Why every textbooks put the light source in the horizontal line?

    in the diffraction experiment, the light source and the slit are in the same horizonatal line. My question is, if the light source is placed at another position which is no longer in the previous horizontal line, would we still get the same diffraction pattern? Will the diffraction pattern...
  26. T

    What are the classical Textbooks for quantum mechanics and electromagnetism?

    What are the "classical Textbooks" for quantum mechanics and electromagnetism? hi, I want to use my vacations to study quantum mechanics and eletromagnetism. Are there any "classical textbook" for these 2 subjects, like "Goldstein classical mechanics" for mechanics? Thanks, Twukwu.
  27. S

    Help Needed: Abstract Algebra Textbooks & Dual/Quotient Vector Spaces

    Lately I've been taking a unit that deals with abstract algebra and I'm finding myself not understanding the lectures at all. To make matters worse the unit doesn't have a reccomended textbook so I don't even have any infomation to self learn from. I guess what I'm asking is for some good...
  28. Z

    Recommendations for Maths textbooks

    I`m reading undergraduate physics at level1. The suggested reading has been "Anything with Maths for Engineers" in the title! So i`ve been to the Uni library and found only 2 books,and they don`t appear to be very good. i intend to buy myself some books but would greatly appreciate some...
  29. I

    Free Physics Textbooks & Problems: Including Irodov

    Big question: where can I find some free physics textbooks and problems. For exemple Irodov?
  30. K

    Find the Best Algebra 1 Textbook for You!

    What would be a good algebra 1 textbook? I'm out of high school & aced algebra in high school. However it has been four years... & well I don't remember anything I learned from the classes. I went to amazon.com & checked for algebra 1 textbooks (figure I might as well start from the...
  31. Astronuc

    AIAA - Textbooks in Aerodynamics and Space Engineering

    American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA - www.aiaa.org ) Good site for those who are seriously interested in basics of aerospace propulsion, rockets (missiles), and mission design Some titles you might find interesting (as of Sep 18, 2005 and subject to change)...
  32. F

    How Can I Access Online Textbooks for University Level Math Courses?

    hi there.. i really wanned to know if there is a possibility of finding online textbooks for refernce at the university level..I am looking for"mathematical methods for physicists by T Chow", and linear algebra by nicholson..Can i find them online so that i don't have to spend more money in...
  33. M

    What are the best textbooks for learning aerodynamics?

    hi, i am taking graduate course in aerodynamics and the professor has not provided class with text. He had recommended "Aircraft Design" by Raymer, and also a book by Anderson. Anyone know other good texts on Aerodynamics, if so please let me know. Thank you kindly Manu
  34. exequor

    Saving Money on Textbooks: How I Bought a Used Book for $8

    As we all know textbooks are very, very, very, (you get the picture) expensive and the bad thing about it is that no matter how good the condition of the book is, when you try to sell it back you don't get anything considerable for it. Here is what I did. I needed the general chemistry book...
  35. Kerrie

    Are Laptops the Future of Textbooks in Education?

    http://www.cnn.com/2005/EDUCATION/08/19/no.textbooks.ap/index.html Now I really wish I was in school again! I remember lugging those huge books in my backpack and how much my back and shoulders would hurt. The article specifically states that those in support of laptops don't want to...
  36. A

    Studying Saving money purchasing the previous edition of textbooks

    Looking at Basic Principles and Calculations of Chemical Engineering. 7th ED printed 2003, 6th ED printed 1996. Have "Basic Principals" changed a lot since then? If I can save a ridiculous sum of money would it be wise to get the older edition or is this going to leave out things of importance...
  37. G

    Studying Good A-level mathematics textbooks?

    I plan to do a 'technical direction in computer animation' course at uni next year for which A-level mathematics is required to enter at year one (was meant to be going this year but can't get funding :frown: ) The textbook 'Core Maths for A-Level' (1990 edition) I'm studying from at the...
  38. B

    Belgium: PA textbooks not anti-Semitic

    I wish this report is enough to show the reality of the Zionist propaganda about Palestinian education system. Currently Belgian government fund partially the Palestinian education system, so they sent several experts to investigate about the Zionists claims. *****************...
  39. C

    Statistical mechanics textbooks?

    I'm searching for a statistical mechanics textbook. It should be roughly at or above the advanced undergraduate level, have a decent set of problems, be reasonably thorough, and be ideal for self-study. I would be grateful for any recommendations.
  40. Astronuc

    Textbooks on Condensed Matter Physics

    Condensed Matter Physics (seems comprehensive) Michael Marder Center for Nonlinear Dynamics, University of Texas, Austin TABLE OF CONTENTS PART I: ATOMIC STRUCTURE Chapter 1: The Idea of Crystals, page 3 1.1, Introduction, page 3 1.1.1, Why are Solids Crystalline?, page 4 1.2...
  41. N

    Studying Good Books for Physics: ZapperZ's List

    Since ZapperZ's thread is too large I would like concise listing of your input on the "good books" in detail. ( U or G - Name - Author, comments aren't necessary ) From what I have seen so far there are Introductory Calculus-Based: U - Fundamentals of Physics 7e - Resnick, Halliday...
  42. I

    Linear and Abstract Algebra textbooks

    I need some recommendations for a good linear algebra textbook, something that's actually used in schools. I've finished linear 1 and 2 and I'm doing some preparation during the summer.
  43. S

    Studying Share Your Favorite Physics Textbooks!

    hi everybody, I really want to learn your ideas about textbookson physics. which one is your favorite? of course I am not talking about popular books. I want you to say for example: classical mechanics-landau quantum mechanics-liboff but only one book on each subject. thanx
  44. TheStatutoryApe

    Why Are Some Democrats Pushing for a 200 Page Limit on Textbooks in California?

    http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/opinion/11777621.htm As if we don't already have a problem with kids not wanting to read.
  45. quasar987

    Studying What textbooks cover topics in Applied Analysis?

    Hi, I'm going to take this class called "Applied analysis" text semester and I want to be sure that I have more than one reference book, so I need to know what are the books on this subject so I can borrow them at the library before anyone else. This class will talk about: Beta and Gamma...
  46. M

    Where can I find international softcover editions of textbooks?

    This past fall I ordered a few of my books from internet vendors who sold softcover international editions of textbooks. For this first time in my college career, I spent less than 200 bucks on my texts, and they were exactly the same as the rather pricey hardcover books my buddies had...
  47. T

    Are Newer Textbooks More Like Magazines than Educational Tools?

    I'm 38 and I just became reinterested in math as a hobby. I've bought a few textbooks on Ebay to catch up the things I learned 20+ years ago in High School, and I'm just floored by the new texts. Is it just me, or is reading a textbook that's recently published feel like you're reading a...
  48. T

    Suggest some good introductory textbooks on GR

    Hello, I was wondering if any of you can suggest some good introductory textbooks on GR around the graduate level. Thank you for your time. Yours Truly, TK.
  49. M

    Bourbakist approach to writing textbooks

    After much much reading, I have come to the conclusion that the Bourbakist approach to writing textbooks is only useful for Algebra and Analysis, not for things like Dynamical Systems and Differential Geometry/Topology. Does anybody want to agree or disagree?
  50. C

    How can I effectively take notes from math textbooks?

    I recently enlisted in the US Air Force so I am not attending school this semester; however, I'm still trying to continue strengthening my mathematical skills as well as adventure into new parts of mathematics. I've recently purchased a few new textbooks on an assortment of math subjects and I...
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