Text Book suggestions and Reviews

In summary, the conversation is about a student who is taking calculus, physics, and discrete mathematics and is looking for websites that provide reviews and comments on physics books. The student mentions having two calculus books, Spivak and Apostol, and asks for advice on which one would be better for their major in physics. Another person suggests that both books are good options, but are more geared towards math majors and may be overkill for a physics major. However, working through these books will prepare the student for any calculus encountered in their physics courses and their first mathematical analysis class.
  • #1
sunil774
14
0
I am a freshmen taking calculus and physics and discrete mathematics and things like that. I was wondering if there are any sites devoted to reviews and comments on books for physics , calculus.

And,
I have two calculus books, Spivak and Apostol, I took calculus in high school and whatever they are teaching me now in college is a little addition to it. So what do you think, books like Spivak and apostol better suit me. I want to major in physics.
 
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  • #2
You pretty much can't go wrong with Apostol's two volume sequence and Spivak's Calculus/Calculus on Manifolds. As far as majoring in Physics, these books are more geared towards math majors. It'll be overkill but, should you thoroughly work through these books, you'll be prepared for any Calculus you'll encounter in your Physics courses and ready for you're first mathematical analysis class if you wished.
 
  • #3


I understand the importance of having reliable and informative resources for studying complex subjects like calculus and physics. To answer your question, there are many websites and forums dedicated to reviews and comments on books for these subjects. Some popular options include Goodreads, Amazon, and Reddit.

In terms of your specific question about Spivak and Apostol, both are highly respected and widely used textbooks in the field of calculus. They both offer rigorous and comprehensive coverage of the subject, which is crucial for a physics major. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and learning style, so I would suggest trying out both books and seeing which one resonates with you more.

Additionally, I would also recommend seeking out recommendations from your professors or upperclassmen who have taken similar courses. They may have valuable insights and suggestions on which textbooks are best suited for your specific coursework and goals.

Overall, it is great to see your dedication to finding the best resources for your studies. With the right books and a strong work ethic, I have no doubt you will excel in your calculus and physics courses. Best of luck in your academic pursuits!
 
  • #4


I highly recommend utilizing online resources for book suggestions and reviews in your field of study. Many reputable websites, such as Amazon and Goodreads, offer user reviews and ratings for textbooks and other educational materials. Additionally, you can also check with your university or college library for recommended textbooks for your courses.

In terms of your specific question about calculus books, both Spivak and Apostol are highly regarded texts in the field. However, it ultimately depends on your personal learning style and preferences. Some students may find one book more helpful than the other, so it may be beneficial to read reviews and compare the content of each book before making a decision.

Since you are majoring in physics, it may also be helpful to seek recommendations from your professors or upperclassmen in your department. They may have specific suggestions for textbooks that align with the curriculum and teaching style of your university.

Overall, I encourage you to do your own research and gather multiple opinions before making a decision on which textbooks to use. Remember, the most important thing is finding a book that helps you understand the material and prepares you for your future studies in physics.
 

Related to Text Book suggestions and Reviews

1. What criteria should I use when selecting a text book for a specific subject?

When selecting a text book for a specific subject, it is important to consider the content, accuracy, relevance, and level of difficulty. The content should cover all the necessary topics for the subject and be up-to-date. The accuracy of the information presented in the text book is crucial, as it will impact your understanding of the subject. The relevance of the text book to your course or research topic is also important, as it should align with your learning objectives. Finally, consider the level of difficulty, as you want a text book that is challenging yet still understandable.

2. How can I find reliable reviews for a text book?

There are several ways to find reliable reviews for a text book. You can search for reviews on academic websites or forums, where professors and students may share their experiences with the textbook. You can also look for reviews from reputable publications or journals in your field. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from professors or colleagues who have used the text book before.

3. Is it necessary to purchase the latest edition of a text book?

This depends on the subject and the changes made in the latest edition. If the subject is constantly evolving, it may be necessary to purchase the latest edition to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. However, if there have been minimal changes from the previous edition, it may not be necessary to purchase the latest one. Consider consulting with your professor or doing some research to determine if the latest edition is worth the cost.

4. Can I use online reviews to determine the quality of a text book?

Online reviews can be a helpful resource when trying to determine the quality of a text book. However, it is important to be cautious and consider the credibility of the source. Look for reviews from reputable websites or verified purchasers. It may also be helpful to read a variety of reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the text book.

5. How can I make the most of a text book once I have chosen one?

To make the most of a text book, it is important to actively engage with the material. This can include taking thorough notes, highlighting important information, and completing practice problems or questions. It may also be helpful to supplement the text book with additional resources, such as online tutorials or study groups. Additionally, regularly reviewing and revisiting the text book can help reinforce your understanding of the subject.

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