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How to Solve Mathematical Problems
If you've ever tried to solve mathematical problems without any idea how to go about it, this book is for you. It will improve your ability to solve all kinds of mathematical problems whether in mathematics, science, engineering, business, or purely recreational mathematical problems (puzzles, games, etc.).
In the pages of this book you'll discover seven indispensable problem-solving inference, classification of action sequences, state evaluation and hill climbing, subgoals, contradiction, working backward and relations between problems. Based on modern advances in the fields of artificial intelligence and computer simulation of thought, the techniques are taught here by an effective problem-solving methodology. Dr. Wickelgren, formerly a Professor of Psychology at MIT and the University of Oregon, first defines a problem-solving method, then illustrates its application to simple recreational mathematics problems that require no more background than a year of high school algebra and a year of plane geometry. By devoting the majority of the book to such "puzzle" problems, which require less background and information than more advanced mathematics and science problems, the author reaches the widest possible audience. In the final chapter, however, Dr. Wickelgren deals with specific problems from mathematics, science, and engineering. Throughout the book, sample problems illustrate each method and the author has supplied hints and complete solutions.
Carefully and clearly written, this indispensable guide will help students in every discipline avoid countless hours of frustration and wasted effort. It is an ideal book for early undergraduate courses in mathematics, physical science, engineering, computer science, economics and other fields that require problem solving. Preface. Introduction. References.Index. 73 line illustrations.
In the pages of this book you'll discover seven indispensable problem-solving inference, classification of action sequences, state evaluation and hill climbing, subgoals, contradiction, working backward and relations between problems. Based on modern advances in the fields of artificial intelligence and computer simulation of thought, the techniques are taught here by an effective problem-solving methodology. Dr. Wickelgren, formerly a Professor of Psychology at MIT and the University of Oregon, first defines a problem-solving method, then illustrates its application to simple recreational mathematics problems that require no more background than a year of high school algebra and a year of plane geometry. By devoting the majority of the book to such "puzzle" problems, which require less background and information than more advanced mathematics and science problems, the author reaches the widest possible audience. In the final chapter, however, Dr. Wickelgren deals with specific problems from mathematics, science, and engineering. Throughout the book, sample problems illustrate each method and the author has supplied hints and complete solutions.
Carefully and clearly written, this indispensable guide will help students in every discipline avoid countless hours of frustration and wasted effort. It is an ideal book for early undergraduate courses in mathematics, physical science, engineering, computer science, economics and other fields that require problem solving. Preface. Introduction. References.Index. 73 line illustrations.
- GenresMathematics
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 1995
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
November 30, 2021
How to Solve Problems is a good intro book to logical thinking (not philosophical logic or socratic logic); how to look at a problem and determine a solution path.
To that end, the problem solving mechanics can be applied just about anywhere. The book's focus is mathematical and its methods are general enough to be useful in any walk of life.
I'm not suggesting someone use linear transforms to resolve an argument, I'm suggesting using the analysis suggestions for solving linear transforms to resolve an argument. Example: Determine the clearest solution path, determine whether you must begin at the end of the argument or the beginning to create resolution, et cetera.
Probably not everyone's cup of tea - definitely not for the mathephobic but quite good for general logic puzzle solving - and useful for those so inclined.
To that end, the problem solving mechanics can be applied just about anywhere. The book's focus is mathematical and its methods are general enough to be useful in any walk of life.
I'm not suggesting someone use linear transforms to resolve an argument, I'm suggesting using the analysis suggestions for solving linear transforms to resolve an argument. Example: Determine the clearest solution path, determine whether you must begin at the end of the argument or the beginning to create resolution, et cetera.
Probably not everyone's cup of tea - definitely not for the mathephobic but quite good for general logic puzzle solving - and useful for those so inclined.
March 19, 2020
I like this book because the author treats you like an artificial intelligence.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews