How to Solve It : A New Aspect of Mathematical Method - Softcover

George Polya

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0140124993 ISBN 13: 9780140124996

Publisher: Penguin, 1990

Synopsis

The definitive guide to mathematical problem solving, from one of the great teachers of the twentieth century

George Pólya''s perennial bestseller has inspired generations around the world to think more clearly. Brilliantly showing how ''there is a grain of discovery in the solution of any problem'', his strategies for mathematical problem-solving - from finding weak points to squeezing the data - will help get to the bottom of any puzzle.

''A superb book on how to think fresh thoughts ... A walk inside Pólya''s mind as he builds up maxims on how to comprehend a problem, how to build up a strategy, and then how to test it'' David Bodanis, Guardian

''Everyone should know the work of George Polya on how to solve problems'' Marvin Minsky

''A classic ... It is the outcome of careful and informed deliberation by one of the great teachers among the ranks of research mathematicians'' Ian Stewart, author of Does God Play Dice?

''Every prospective teacher should read it'' E. T. Bell

About this title

About the Author

George Polya (1887-1985) was a Professor of Mathematics at Stanford University.

Review

"Every prospective teacher should read it. In particular, graduate students will find it invaluable. The traditional mathematics professor who reads a paper before one of the Mathematical Societies might also learn something from the book: 'He writes a, he says b, he means c; but it should be d.' "--E. T. Bell, Mathematical Monthly

"[This] elementary textbook on heuristic reasoning, shows anew how keen its author is on questions of method and the formulation of methodological principles. Exposition and illustrative material are of a disarmingly elementary character, but very carefully thought out and selected."--Herman Weyl, Mathematical Review

"I recommend it highly to any person who is seriously interested in finding out methods of solving problems, and who does not object to being entertained while he does it."--Scientific Monthly

"Any young person seeking a career in the sciences would do well to ponder this important contribution to the teacher's art."--A. C. Schaeffer, American Journal of Psychology

"Every mathematics student should experience and live this book"--Mathematics Magazine

"In an age that all solutions should be provided with the least possible effort, this book brings a very important message: mathematics and problem solving in general needs a lot of practice and experience obtained by challenging creative thinking, and certainly not by copying predefined recipes provided by others. Let's hope this classic will remain a source of inspiration for several generations to come."--A. Bultheel, European Mathematical Society

Edition details

• Publisher: Penguin
• Publication date: 1990
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0140124993
• ISBN 13: 9780140124996
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 304