Mathematics for Finance: An Introduction to Financial Engineering (Springer Undergraduate Mathematics Series) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great book at a great price. As an undegraduate student reading for a degree in mathematics with financial management, I've found this textbook to be of great help in the derivative securities and portfolio theory modules I am doing this year. There is a nice balance between examples, theory, and exercises (all complete with solutions). The examples and excercises have been particularly helpful to me - they don't just illustrate and consolidate the various topics, but most importantly prepare the ground for the exciting new ideas to come. Compared to other books recommended for my mudules in mathematical finance, this is by far the most readable. What seems to be daunting mathematical theory full of unnesessary abstractions in the other books I have tried, this one has somehow managed to appear easy, indeedd almost obvious when you come to think of it (just look at pricing American options, for example!).
There are a few typos in various places and it is well worth visiting the book's web page at www.springeronline.com/1-85233-330-8 (and click on the accompanying website) for a list of corrections. At the same place, I have also located some nice Excel files that can be downloaed, with numerical solutions to case studies and excercises in the more advanced chapters - these are neatly designed and are of great help in following the text. I just wish there was even more material covered in similar Excel files.
In all respects, a great book this, and well worth spending under 20 quid.

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This textbook contains the fundamentals for an undergraduate course in mathematical finance aimed primarily at students of mathematics. Assuming only a basic knowledge of probability and calculus, the material is presented in a mathematically rigorous and complete way. The book covers the time value of money, including the time structure of interest rates, bonds and stock valuation; derivative securities (futures, options), modelling in discrete time, pricing and hedging, and many other core topics. With numerous examples, problems and exercises, this book is ideally suited for independent study.

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The Equation That Couldn't Be Solved: How Mathematical Genius Discovered the Language of Symmetry Review

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(More customer reviews)Mario Livio's title suggests an exploration of unsolvable equations, in particular the drama enshrouding the mathematical conundrum of solving general, fifth degree polynomial equations, known as quintics. His subtitle, "How Mathematical Genius Discovered the Language of Symmetry," indicates that his work will also explore the role of symmetry in ultimately resolving the question of whether such polynomials could be solved by a formulas using nothing more than addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and nth roots. These two subjects portend an interesting discussion on the solvability of equations and the peculiar mathematical race in Renaissance Europe to "discover" the magical formulas for solving cubics and quartics.
One could reasonably expect that the groundbreaking work of Tartaglia, Cardano. Ferraro, Galois, Abel, Kronecker, Hermite, and Klein would be encompassed in this survey, and indeed they are. However, purchasers of this book are given no indication that they will spend well over half their reading time on rehashes of Abel's tragic life story and the mythology of Evariste Galois's foolish death, Emmy Noether's challenges as a woman mathematician in Germany, a history of group theory, Einstein's theory of relativity, the place of string theory in modern cosmology, the survival benefits of symmetry in evolution, Daniel Gorenstein's 30-year proof that "every finite simple group is either a member of one of the eighteen families or is one of the twenty-six sporadic groups," a trite and unnecessary diversion on human creativity, and finally, an even more outlandish (and utterly inconclusive) "comparison" of Galois's brain with that of Albert Einstein. The persevering reader can only conclude that anything and everything that remotely touches upon the quintic and Galois's work was given a chapter of its own, a mathematical version of "everything but the kitchen sink." The end result is an unfortunate mishmash, a sort of treetop skimming of modern mathematics, post-Newtonian physics, and cognitive theory.
Sadly, Mr. Livio misses a number of opportunities to enlighten his readers on the theory of polynomials, the nature of their roots, and the curious symmetries one encounters. For example, he makes no effort to discuss the nature of polynomial roots beyond a short Appendix, and he passes on the chance to detail the marvelous symmetry of imaginary roots in equations such as x^6 = 1. While he outlines the general thrust of Galois's approach to the unsolvability of quintics, Livio also mentions that Hermite found a method to solve the general quintic using elliptic functions, but we are not told how such a solution is discovered. What about sixth degree polynomials and beyond? Mr. Livio doesn't tell us - he's too busy worrying over the fairness of the first draft lottery in 1970. There is also the small matter of the author's style of explication. At times, such as his introduction to symmetry, he writes for a general, non-mathematical audience. Later, he tosses out references to elliptic functions without explanation and culminates his group theory discussion with sentences like, "We can use the family tree of these subgroups to create a sequence of composition factors (order of the parent group divided by that of the maximal normal subgroup)."
What THE EQUATION THAT COULDN'T BE SOLVED really needed was a good editor to bring these widespread ramblings into focus. A bit of truth in advertising might have been appropriate as well, but a book entitled "The Role of Group Theory in Modern Mathematics and Science" (primarily what this book is about, along with the author's peculiar obsession with Evariste Galois's death by duel) wouldn't tap well into the market developed by Keith Devlin, John Allen Paulos, Ian Stewart, Eli Maor, Simon Singh, and other popularizers of mathematics for mass market audiences. In the end, this book falls short of its companions for its sheer lack of focus and somewhat misleading cover presentation. At times, the book is interesting; at others, regrettably, it's simply too much of a superficial slog through too many loosely connected disciplines.

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Great Jobs for Math Majors, Second ed. (Great Jobs For... Series) Review

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(More customer reviews)As a recent graduate with a math degree this is the book I have been searching for. This is the only book you should need. It covers the interview, cover letters, resumes, networking and everything else. All other books on this subject limit discussion to education majors and jobs. This book does the same but gives equal treatment to those who seek jobs with math as a primary skill. It has hints for everything you could imagine. Gives lists of job titles and many job discriptions. Also gives some contact information for organizations that will be of help or interest to anyone looking for employment using their math degree. Once again, this is a must buy!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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"What can I do with a degree in math?"

You've worked hard for that math degree. Now what? Sometimes, the choice of careers can seem endless. The most difficult part of a job search is starting it. This is where Great Jobs for Math Majors comes in. Designed to help you put your major to work, this handy guide covers the basics of a job search and provides detailed profiles of careers in math. From the worlds of finance and science to manufacturing and education, you'll explore a variety of job options for math majors and determine the best fit for your personal, professional, and practical needs.

Do you want to be an actuary? Work in the banking industry? Program computers? In this updated edition, you'll find:

Job-search basics such as crafting résumés and writing cover letters
Self-assessment exercises to help determine your professional fit
Investigative tools to help you find the perfect job
Networking tips to get your foot in the door before your résumé is even sent
True tales from practicing professionals about everyday life on the job
Current statistics on earnings, advancement, and the future of the profession
Resources for further information, including journals, professional associations, and online resources

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Mathematical Structures for Computer Science Review

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(More customer reviews)This book will leave you high and dry on many occassions. Gersting explains the obvious in each section with her practice problems and then throws problems that are impossible to do without an extra book at the end of each section. Unless you have a very good professor that notices and makes up for the grey areas in this book, you are in big trouble my friend. Discrete Math is a fun subject, this book makes it a total hassle.

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Computing Curricula 2001 (CC2001), a joint undertaking of the Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers/Computer Society (IEEE/CS) and the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), identifies the essential material for an undergraduate degree in computer science.This Sixth Edition of Mathematical Structures for Computer Science covers all the topics in the CC2001 suggested curriculumfor a one-semester intensive discrete structures course, and virtually everything suggested for a two-semester version of a discrete structures course. Gersting's text binds together what otherwise appears to be a collection of disjointed topics by emphasizing the following themes: ' Importance of logical thinking' Power of mathematical notation' Usefulness of abstractions

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101 Career Alternatives for Teachers: Exciting Job Opportunities for Teachers Outside the Teaching Profession Review

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(More customer reviews)I was hoping to get practical information on viable alternatives. Unfortunately, there were many included where job growth was expected to be slow. In addition, there were many jobs that required further schooling although the author DID NOT clearly indicate which ones.
I wanted a book to tell me about viable alternatives for teachers which would not require me to go back to school. I was a bit disappointed and will continue looking.

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The Job-Search Resource for Teachers Considering a New CareerTeachers, are you ready for a career change? Today, turnover rates within the education industry are skyrocketing. Teachers as a group have extraordinary skills that are highly valued in the marketplace. But where does that leave you? Exactly where do you begin the whole vocation-switching process? In 101 Career Alternatives for Teachers, you'll discover: ·How to assess your career goals ·The best fields for your particular teaching skills and expertise ·Practical and effective ways to launch your job search ·The most attractive and lucrative career alternatives ·And much more! Unlike most career guides, this one-of-a-kind resource is geared specifically to you, the teacher. You'll find more than 100 exciting job alternatives ranging from adventure travel specialist to wedding consultant. Whether you're retiring from teaching or simply leaving the profession, experienced educator Margaret Gisler will provide you with everything you need to successfully make the transition from teaching to your new vocation.

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College Algebra Review

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(More customer reviews)The marketing machine for Stewart's books is working wonders, but the books aren't. Too many colleges and universities are duped into adopting these books while students and conscious instructors exploit minimal benefit from them, specially in the problem sets, which are quite poor.

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Learn to think mathematically and develop genuine problem-solving skills with Stewart, Redlin, and Watson's COLLEGE ALGEBRA, Fifth Edition. This straightforward and easy-to-use algebra book will help you learn the fundamentals of algebra in a variety of practical ways. The book features new tools to help you succeed, such as learning objectives before each section to prepare you for what you're about to learn, and a list of formulas and key concepts after each section that help reinforce what you've learned. In addition, the book includes many real-world examples that show you how mathematics is used to model in fields like engineering, business, physics, chemistry, and biology.

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Practical Algebra: A Self-Teaching Guide, Second Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)I'd certainly award them to Mr. Selby and Dr. Slavin's book. I'm not finished with the text, but I'm learning so well that I KNOW I will have mastered the material. In fact, I just ordered the book which they recommend as a follow-up, "Geometry and Trigonometry for Calculus." They start out with baby steps -- literally simple addition and subtraction, and work up to fairly sophisticated algebraic expressions and problems. The student finds himself enjoying the material almost like it were a novel. Selby and Slavin give immediate answers for ALL the problems, so there's no frustration wondering if the problem is solved correctly. If the student misses a certain number of problems in a set, the authors recommend review of specific "frames" which cover the material. They treat the student with respect, making it clear that NO ONE (least of all someone who is motivated to study through their text) is a dummy. This is so much easier than trying to keep up with a math teacher who scribbles and then erases the material on a blackboard about as fast as he/she can write. I now know that self-paced learning is the way to go, at least for me. Many years ago, I failed calculus in college, and barely squeaked through college algebra and trigonometry. I fully intend to use this framework as a basis to repeat the course (even if via correspondence) and get this only blotch on an otherwise fine college career off my record. How sad that Mr. Selby has passed on, but how great it is that his books live still.

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Practical Algebra If you studied algebra years ago and now need a refresher course in order to use algebraic principles on the job, or if you're a student who needs an introduction to the subject, here's the perfect book for you. Practical Algebra is an easy and fun-to-use workout program that quickly puts you in command of all the basic concepts and tools of algebra. With the aid of practical, real-life examples and applications, you'll learn:* The basic approach and application of algebra to problem solving* The number system (in a much broader way than you have known it from arithmetic)* Monomials and polynomials; factoring algebraic expressions; how to handle algebraic fractions; exponents, roots, and radicals; linear and fractional equations* Functions and graphs; quadratic equations; inequalities; ratio, proportion, and variation; how to solve word problems, and moreAuthors Peter Selby and Steve Slavin emphasize practical algebra throughout by providing you with techniques for solving problems in a wide range of disciplines--from engineering, biology, chemistry, and the physical sciences, to psychology and even sociology and business administration. Step by step, Practical Algebra shows you how to solve algebraic problems in each of these areas, then allows you to tackle similar problems on your own, at your own pace. Self-tests are provided at the end of each chapter so you can measure your mastery.

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Graphs & Digraphs, Fourth Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)This was the one book assigned for a class where I did NOT have to go out and buy a few other books in order to round out the assigned text. Chartrand has written books on graph theory directed at students of many different levels, and this one is advanced -- but the keynote attribute of this book its thoroughness and accuracy. The proofs depend upon appropriate use of accurate definitions, and here the definitions are VERY clear and specific -- therefore in constructing the proofs in the exercises the student really comes to understand the meaning of the definitions and the concepts they describe. At first I thought this book was going to be unapproachable because it does not kill you with friendly banter, but I have come to appreciate its solid approach and trustworthiness not to lead anyone astray mathematically. By the way, graph theory is really fun. Don't pass us the chance to study it!

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With a growing range of applications in fields from computer science to chemistry and communications networks, graph theory has enjoyed a rapid increase of interest and widespread recognition as an important area of mathematics. Through more than 20 years of publication, Graphs & Digraphs has remained a popular point of entry to the field, and through its various editions, has evolved with the field from a purely mathematical treatment to one that also addresses the mathematical needs of computer scientists.Carefully updated, streamlined, and enhanced with new features, Graphs & Digraphs, Fourth Edition reflects many of the developments in graph theory that have emerged in recent years. The authors have added discussions on topics of increasing interest, deleted outdated material, and judiciously augmented the Exercises sections to cover a range of problems that reach beyond the construction of proofs.New in the Fourth Edition:
Expanded treatment of Ramsey theory
Major revisions to the material on domination and distance
New material on list colorings that includes interesting recent results
A solutions manual covering many of the exercises available to instructors with qualifying course adoptions
A comprehensive bibliography including an updated list of graph theory booksEvery edition of Graphs & Digraphs has been unique in its reflection the subject as one that is important, intriguing, and most of all beautiful. The fourth edition continues that tradition, offering a comprehensive, tightly integrated, and up-to-date introduction that imparts an appreciation as well as a solid understanding of the material.

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Recursively Enumerable Sets and Degrees: A Study of Computable Functions and Computably Generated Sets (Perspectives in Mathematical Logic) Review

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(More customer reviews)This text was specifically written to replace Rogers as the standard graduate introduction. As you will see if you ask around, it wasn't completely successful. That is because, while Rogers is creaking with age, it is interesting. This book is not. It is a detailed and orderly presentation of what the author thinks is important, but that does not include any context, motivation, relations to other math, or applications. It is painfully dull. (There is a 2e in the works, but the excerpts I saw were about the same.) Also, it starts very fast and will be confusing if you haven't already done a book like Cutland. I think the problem is that he has been a master of the subject for so long that he can't put himself in the mind of someone coming to the material for the first time.

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The first part consists of an introduction to the theory of computation and recursive function theory, including definitions of computable functions, Turing machines, partial recursive functions, recursively enumerable sets, the Kleene recursion theorem etc. The second part is a comprehensive study of recursively enumerable sets and their degrees.

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