How to Read and Do Proofs: An Introduction to Mathematical Thought Processes

This book categorizes, identifies and explains the various techniques that are used repeatedly in all proofs and explains how to read proofs that arise in mathematical literature by understanding which techniques are used and how they are applied.

LEARN HOW TO READ, UNDERSTAND, AND DO PROOFS!

Daniel Solow's new Third Edition of HOW TO READ AND DO PROOFS will help yopu master the basic techniques that are used in all proofs, regardless of the mathematical subject matter in which the proof arises. Once you have a firm grasp of the techniques, you'll be better equipped to read, understand and actually do proofs. You'll learn when each techniques is likely to be successful, based on the form of the theorem.
This edition present new material, examples and exercises that show you how to explain proofs in terms of the techniques discussed in the text, improved explanations, and a glossary of key terms for easy reference.

KEY FEATURES:

• Shows how any proof can be understood as a sequence of techniques.
• Covers the full range of techniques used in proofs, such as the contrapositive, induction, and proof by contradiction.
• Explains how to identify which techniques are used and how they are applied in the specific problem.
• Illustrates how to read written proofs with many step-by-step examples.
• Requires no college-level math.
• Uses ordinary language instead of symbolic logic to explain the nature of proofs.