Customer Reviews

Technical Calculus (5th Edition)

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The field of technical mathamatics is intended for students seeking a less theoretical and more practical treatment of mathematics. Rather than providing proofs for theorums, technical math texts offer a hands-on approach with an emphasis on step-by-step explanation of new concepts. They are usually very readable and so self-explanatory that an instructor is only occasionally necessary to clarify a concept or answer a question. With these expectations, I thought the 272-page paperback book Technical Calculus, by Gary, Trefzger and Ewen, would be a simple treatment of introductory calculus. Instead, I found the paperback edition of Technical Calculus to miss the mark. Its first shortcoming is in its very title. It is actually an advanced continuation course in calculus. It is not the introductory text I thought it was. I feel its title ought to make this distinction clear. Further, the text does very little real teaching. Each chapter is more a collection of formulas followed by a lot of problems to solve. There is very little in the way of step-by-step explanation of concepts and techniques. I would imagine regular contact with an instructor would be neccesary to adequately learn from this text. To me, these are significant shortcomings. On the positive side, if you sre resdy for an advanced study of calculus, including such topics as three space partial derivatives and double integration (chapter two), or second order differential equations (Chapter six), Technical Calculus would be a text to consider. Another plus is the student solutions manual included with the text that offers worked solutions for all odd-numbered homework problems. In addition, the main textbook offers a supplemental teaching DVD tucked in its back cover. These supplements can help the independant studier who has no contact with a calculus instructor. If this doesn't describe you, then instead of the paperback version of Technical Calculus by Gary, Trefzger and Ewen, I would suggest you take a look at the 600-plus page hardcover text offered by the same three authors and, confusingly, given the exact same title. This second text does begin at the beginning, starting with foundational algebra and then introducing Calculus. This is the type of teaching teaxt I was really looking for. If you are ready to continue your study of calculus after learning the basics, try the 272-page paperback book reviewed here. With its student solutions manual and DVD, it might be a good choice. If you want to get the basics. as I did, the 600 page hardcover text with the same title by the same authors is worth you investigation. It is what I expected from the paperback version and didn't get. It shows you can't choose a book by its cover, or its title.

Book arrived in good condition, although the corner was smashed. It was probably damaged in shipping but got to me in a reasonable amount of time. As for the book content I am disappointed. The reason I bought this book was to help me work through the homework step by step but I have found that in the break down of the questions they are missing some key steps that I needed the book for in the first place! Its better than nothing, I was just expecting it to be more helpful.

Thank you, the book came faster than I expected and is in great condition!

This book is the best on the market for both students and teachers.

I am a Jr at a local college and have enjoyed this book. There are many examples to follow making it easy to learn from. Enjoy your calculus!