Algebra Year 3, Semester 2, 2012-3: Course information

Reference material

  • This course does not follow a particular book.

    The material on linear algebra is covered in different ways and from different viewpoints in numerous textbooks. If you have previously bought a copy of Anton's book, you may find it useful for some topics. Those with applied tastes might benefit from G. Strang, Linear Algebra and its Applications (International Edition, 2004, £46.08), while purists might enjoy S. Axler, Linear Algebra Done Right (2nd edition, 2004, £21.23) [current best Amazon prices]

    My advice in general is that reading books can be useful sometimes for getting a different view but they are not a substitute for doing lots of examples and problems and asking a tutor or the lecturer about concepts you are having trouble with.

    You might like to consult the printed notes prepared by a previous lecturer, though the order and choice of topics this year will differ in places.
    This free online textbook on linear algebra is quite good, although the author's notation and choice of topics is somewhat different from ours. I particularly recommend section PT on Proof Techniques. This is well worth reading if you want to improve your general pure mathematical skills.

    You might also find it useful to refer back to Summary of Linear Algebra Year 2

  • Workshops start in Week 1. As last semester, they are on Thursdays at 9.00 and 13.10, in room 3217.

    Workshop Problems

    Other problems

    Lecture notes