, 6 min read
Solving new and difficult theory problems… without looping into oblivion
8 thoughts on “Solving new and difficult theory problems… without looping into oblivion”
, 6 min read
8 thoughts on “Solving new and difficult theory problems… without looping into oblivion”
Good points.
Just a footnote to your point about drawing pictures. Sometimes it helps to draw a BIG picture. Sometimes just redrawing the same picture 3x larger opens up your thinking.
Fantastic advice. I studied Computer Science in college and I often had this problem in math class, while the mathematics kids pulled ahead.
A follow-up question: outside of college, what is the best way to pursue a rigid mathematical education? I want to delve into machine learning, but the main thing holding me back is a poor mathematical background. I either 1) forgot the content of important classes such as linear algebra and number theory that are relevant to the subject, or 2) did not exercise application and thus the true meaning of the content in my math classes was never revealed. Math is one of the subjects that I benefited from taking in a formal institution because grades forced me to learn it (where as most of what I know about computer science I picked up on my own), hence my weakness in the subject.
I agree with being neat and writing down every step. But I work best when I alternate being sloppy and being neat. When I’m my most creative, I scribble on paper. But then I follow that by typing notes up carefully in LaTeX, often when I’m tired and no longer thinking as quickly.
@Adam Bossy
I would suggest using wikipedia (it is a great source of mathematical material) combined with google scholar.
Start with a narrow problem that interests you and then read all about it, then dig down into the various subtopics you need to learn, always starting from wikipedia. Keep in mind that you are going to be overwhelmed and blinded most of the time, but do not worry about it.
Better yet! Write or improve wikipedia articles when you can!
(It helps to learn TeX if you don’t know it already.)
Also, use numerical simulations to test out your theories and formulas.
Plus, be patient. Getting good at mathematics does not happen quickly.
@ John
I agree also. However, I was specifically trying to address the problems faced by someone who feels overwhelmed by the problem.
Or… use a theorem prover. Then you don’t have to worry about not being thorough enough. It will let you know if you haven’t. Well, unless you accidentally use an assumption without meaning to, but there are ways of detecting that too.
…and write. Write down every step you passed through.
Another one is to try lecturing to yourself about the topic. It follows from your last point.