Looking for a Comprehensive Calculus-Diff.Eq Text: Any Recommendations?

In summary, a good calculus-diff.eq text that does a good job at explaining concepts on an intuitive level would be beneficial for someone who is struggling to learn the theory. However, the theory is not that hard to understand once you have a basic understanding of the concepts. Doing the problems, especially integration, is the hard part. However, with practice, it is possible to learn how to do these tasks quickly.
  • #1
s0laris
5
0
Hi guys,
I am wondering if anyone can recommend a good calculus-diff.eq text that does a good job at explaining concepts on an intuitive level. I have already covered the material, but many times I just learned to solve problems algorithmically, rather than understanding the theory. In turn, looking for a super thorough review. Any suggestions?
 
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  • #2
The theory is not that hard.
Doing the problems, especially integration, is the hard part
Choosing which technique, which expression for U [in U Substitution] and
knowing what to do next in a long integration. That comes from doing problems
and seeing lots of solutions. And it demands a knowledge of previous Mathematics
which includes Trig Identities, Algebraic manipulation, Completing the Square,
Polynomial Long Division, Factoring, LCDs, etc.

But the big picture is quite simple.
Integration is just multiplication and the limit just makes the result of the summation [recall that multiplication is repeated summation] more accurate.

Similarly, Differentiation is just division in the limit and the limit also makes the result more accurate. And division is nothing more than repeated subtraction.

And the Fundamental Theorem tells us that the two operations are Inverse Functions with all that that implies.

Relax
You probably know more that you think you do.
 
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  • #3
paulfr said:
The theory is not that hard.
Doing the problems, especially integration, is the hard part
Choosing which technique, which expression for U [in U Substitution] and
knowing what to do next in a long integration. That comes from doing problems
and seeing lots of solutions. And it demands a knowledge of previous Mathematics
which includes Trig Identities, Algebraic manipulation, Completing the Square,
Polynomial Long Division, Factoring, LCDs, etc.

But the big picture is quite simple.
Integration is just multiplication and the limit just makes the result of the summation [recall that multiplication is repeated summation] more accurate.

Similarly, Differentiation is just division in the limit and the limit also makes the result more accurate. And division is nothing more than repeated subtraction.

And the Fundamental Theorem tells us that the two operations are Inverse Functions with all that that implies.

Relax
You probably know more that you think you do.

Don't be so sure. For people who study pure mathematics, they need to know everything down to the finest details to be 100% sure at what exactly they are doing even for a simple integration. Often, students do not even understand the underlying meaning of differentiation in terms of mathematics.
 
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  • #4
Well, for example, I never had an intuitive understanding of a Lagrange multiplier or a Jacobian. I could only solve them through symbolic manipulation, which, of course, is no fun at all. And as RobertT said, I definitely need to know everything down to the finest details.
 

Related to Looking for a Comprehensive Calculus-Diff.Eq Text: Any Recommendations?

1. What is conceptual calculus?

Conceptual calculus is a branch of mathematics that focuses on the study of concepts and their relationships, rather than numerical computations. It involves abstract thinking and reasoning about ideas and their connections.

2. Who uses conceptual calculus?

Conceptual calculus is used by mathematicians, scientists, and engineers to develop and understand complex theories and models. It is also commonly used in fields such as economics, philosophy, and computer science.

3. How is conceptual calculus different from traditional calculus?

Traditional calculus is primarily focused on solving equations and finding numerical solutions, while conceptual calculus is more concerned with understanding the underlying concepts and principles. Conceptual calculus also uses a more abstract approach, whereas traditional calculus relies heavily on mathematical formulas and algorithms.

4. What are some common applications of conceptual calculus?

Conceptual calculus has many applications in various fields, including physics, economics, and engineering. It is often used to model and analyze complex systems, such as fluid dynamics, population dynamics, and optimization problems.

5. Is conceptual calculus difficult to learn?

Like any branch of mathematics, conceptual calculus can be challenging to learn at first. However, with dedication and practice, it can be understood and applied effectively. It is important to have a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and critical thinking skills to excel in conceptual calculus.

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