Softcover

ISBN 10: 052113059X ISBN 13: 9780521130592

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2009

How do mathematicians approach a problem, explore the possibilities, and develop an understanding of a whole area around it? The issue is not simply about obtaining 'the answer'; rather, Beardon explains that a mathematical problem is just one of many related ones that should be simultaneously investigated and discussed at various levels, and that understanding this is a crucial step in becoming a creative mathematician. The book begins with some good advice about procedure, presentation, and organization that will benefit every mathematician, budding, teaching or practiced. In the rest of the book, Beardon presents a series of simple problems, then, through discussion, consideration of special cases, computer experiments, and so on, the reader is taken through these same problems, but at an increasing level of sophistication and generality. Mathematics is rarely a closed book, and seemingly innocent problems, when examined and explored, can lead to results of significance.

Book Description:

How do mathematicians approach a problem and explore the possibilities? Beardon explains that a mathematical problem is just one of many related ones that should be simultaneously investigated and discussed at various levels, and that understanding this is a crucial step in becoming a creative mathematician.

About the Author:

Alan F. Beardon studied at London University and Harvard University, and obtained his Ph.D. from Imperial College, London in 1964. He taught at the University of Maryland (USA) and the University of Kent (UK) before moving to the University of Cambridge in 1968. He is the author of 6 mathematical texts and numerous research papers.