Applied Calculus : Book Review

"Applied Calculus" written by Deborah Hughes-Hallett offers a comprehensive and practical approach to understanding calculus with real-world applications. The author emphasizes the relevance of calculus in fields such as economics, biology, and engineering, making this textbook a valuable resource for students studying applied sciences.

One of the key strengths of this book is its ability to explain complex calculus concepts in a clear and concise manner. Hughes-Hallett breaks down difficult topics into understandable terms, providing students with a solid foundation to tackle more advanced concepts. The inclusion of numerous examples with step-by-step solutions further enhances the accessibility of the material.

The book also showcases a variety of applications that demonstrate the practicality of calculus in various fields of study. By emphasizing the relevance of calculus, students are motivated to understand and apply their knowledge in real-life scenarios. The examples cover a wide range of disciplines, showing students how calculus is used in diverse situations.

Furthermore, "Applied Calculus" provides a wealth of exercises to allow students to practice and reinforce their understanding of the material. The exercises are carefully designed and progressively increase in difficulty, providing ample opportunities for students to challenge themselves and improve their skills. Detailed solutions at the back of the book allow students to check their work and gain a better understanding of any problem areas.

The book is well-organized, with each chapter building upon previously learned concepts. This logical progression helps students develop a strong understanding of calculus and ensures a smooth learning experience. Summaries at the end of each chapter serve as useful review tools, allowing students to consolidate their knowledge and reinforce key concepts.

What are readers saying?

The book "Applied Calculus" by Deborah Hughes-Hallett has garnered a mix of reviews from readers. Some of the reviewers commended the book for its lucid explanations and the inclusion of practical examples, while others found it too technical and challenging to comprehend.

One aspect of the book that received much praise was its extensive coverage of topics in applied calculus. Readers appreciated the clarity and conciseness of the explanations, which aided in understanding complex concepts. The inclusion of numerous real-life applications was also well-received, as it helped readers grasp how calculus can be applied in various fields. Notably, reviewers singled out the practical examples in economics, biology, and physics as particularly valuable and relevant.

However, there were also readers who found the book difficult to follow. They believed that the author assumed a certain level of prior knowledge and did not provide sufficient step-by-step explanations for complex problems. Some reviewers also criticized the book for its abundant use of technical jargon, which posed challenges for beginners in grasping the concepts.

Furthermore, a few readers expressed disappointment that the book focused too much on specific applications rather than offering a broader understanding of calculus. They felt that a deeper exploration of fundamental calculus principles and the underlying theory was lacking.

In summary, "Applied Calculus" by Deborah Hughes-Hallett appears to be a valuable resource for individuals with a solid mathematical background and a desire to apply calculus to real-world problems. The book's clear explanations and practical examples assist in comprehending the subject matter. However, beginners or individuals seeking a more comprehensive exploration of calculus theory may find this book less suitable.

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