How to Study for a Mathematics Degree

Every year, thousands of students go to university to study mathematics (single honours or combined with another subject). Many of these students are extremely intelligent and hardworking, but even the best will, at some point, struggle with the demands of making the transition to advanced mathematics. Some have difficulty adjusting to independent study and to learning from lectures. Other struggles, however, are more fundamental: the mathematics shifts in focus from calculation to proof, so students are expected to interact with it in different ways. These changes need not be mysterious - mathematics education research has revealed many insights into the adjustments that are necessary - but they are not obvious and they do need explaining.This no-nonsense book translates these research-based insights into practical advice for a student audience. It covers every aspect of studying for a mathematics degree, from the most abstract intellectual challenges to the everyday business of interacting with lecturers and making good use of study time. Part 1 provides an in-depth discussion of advanced mathematical thinking, and explains how a student will need to adapt and extend their existing skills in order to develop a good understanding of undergraduate mathematics. Part 2 covers study skills as these relate to the demands of a mathematics degree. It suggests practical approaches to learning from lectures and to studying for examinations while also allowing time for a fulfilling all-round university experience.The first subject-specific guide for students, this friendly, practical text will be essential reading for anyone studying mathematics at university.

Table of Contents:
Introduction Part 1: Mathematics 1: Calculation Procedures 2: Abstract Objects 3: Definitions 4: Theorems 5: Proof 6: Proof Types and Tricks 7: Reading Mathematics 8: Writing Mathematics Part 2: Study Skills 9: Lectures 10: Other People 11: Time Management 12: Panic 13: (Not) Being the Best 14: What Mathematics Lecturers Do References

About the Author :
Lara Alcock is a Senior Lecturer in the Mathematics Education Centre at Loughborough University. She studied mathematics to masters level at the University of Warwick, before going on to doctoral study in mathematics education at the same Institution. Prior to her present position, she spent four years as an Assistant Professor in Mathematics and the Graduate School of Education at Rutgers University in the USA, and two as a Teaching Fellow in Mathematics at the University of Essex in the UK. In her current role she teaches undergraduate mathematics, works with PhD students in mathematics education, and conducts research studies on the ways in which people learn, understand and think about abstract mathematics. She has been awarded National Teaching Fellows of 2015 by The Higher Education Academy.

Review :
`I wish I had a book like this 20 years ago. It would have helped me manage my time and learn a lot more than I did at that age! ' Dr Magdalena D. Toda, Director of Undergraduate Studies, Dept. of Mathematics and Statistics, Texas Tech University, USA `Making the transition from school-level to University-level mathematics is hard, in terms of the complexity of the subject matter, the rigour of thought, and the need to be able to study much more independently. This excellent and wide-ranging book engages with all these issues and more, giving a very helpful insight into what is coming for beginning undergraduates in mathematics or mathematics-related disciplines. I just wish this book had been available in my day! ' Dr Geoff Tennant, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics Education, Institute of Education, University of Reading, UK `Great advice for students who want to study math. Actually, good advice for all students. And, good advice for adults and professionals too. Alcock's straightforward writing style and practical tips make the tallest mountains seem climbable with small steps.' Matthew Leingang, Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, New York University