Topics in Finite and Discrete Mathematics

Written for students in mathematics, computer science, operations research, statistics, and engineering, this text presents a concise lively survey of several fascinating non-calculus topics in modern applied mathematics. Sheldon Ross, noted textbook author and scientist, covers probability, mathematical finance, graphs, linear programming, statistics, computer science algorithms, and groups. He offers an abundance of interesting examples not normally found in standard finite mathematics courses: options pricing and arbitrage, tournaments, and counting formulas. The chapters assume a level of mathematical sophistication at the beginning calculus level, that is, a course in pre-calculus.

Written for a broad audience of students in mathematics, computer science, operations research, statistics, and engineering, this textbook presents a short, lively survey of several fascinating non-calculus topics in modern applied mathematics. Coverage includes probability, mathematical finance, graphs, linear programming, statistics, computer science algorithms, and groups. A key feature is the abundance of interesting examples not normally found in standard finite mathematics courses, such as options pricing and arbitrage, tournaments, and counting formulas. The only prerequisite is a course in pre-calculus, although the added sophistication attained from studying calculus would be useful.