Mathematical Notation: A Guide for Engineers and Scientists

by Edward R. Scheinerman

Mathematics is a language with a unique vocabulary, written with a dizzying array of often incomprehesnible symbols. If we are unsure of the meaning or usage of a mathematical word, a quick internet search is invaluable. But what are we to do when confronted with some strange mathematical hieroglyph? What does one type into the search bar? This book is the answer! Our goal is to cover mathematical notation commonly used by engineers and scientists---notation a university student is likely to encounter. We make no attempt to teach the mathematics behind these symbols. Rather, our goal is to give reminders of what these symbols mean; from there, we can consult textbooks or resources on the web. The book is organized by mathematical topic, but multiple indices steer the reader to each symbol's explanation. We also show how to produce the symbols in LaTeX and give guidance on their mathematical usage.

Genres: Mathematics, Science, Textbooks

92 pages, Paperback

First published September 25, 2011

Reviews

[Olatomiwa Bifarin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading technical papers riddled with scary maths notation isn’t particularly fun. Searching the web isn’t efficient too (Detexify works ok though), until l came across Mathematical Notation by Edward Scheinerman. It’s largely a reference book, think dictionary for math symbols. It covers many topics in pure maths: logic, geometry, numbers, linear algebra, calculus etc. And then a surprise package at the back: a LaTex reference chart for the notations!

[Terran M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short; quick read; includes a nice bonus LaTex reference chart in the back. I found it most useful for seeing all the different inconsistent notations used by different authors for the same thing called out in one place, since of course each author acts like their notation is the only one.

It is somewhat expensive relative to the length, and buying the print book does not get you a searchable online version.

[Alok Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book fulfills its purpose. It covers the majority of notation seen outside of pure math. I only wish there was an ebook. I didn't learn much from it, but my memory of this notation hasn't faded just yet.

[Jon Nguyen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really glad this book exists. Basically, if you don't come from a mathematical background but are reading material that may contain mathematical equations, this book can help you decipher the special symbols and notation. It doesn't really explain anything, but it gives you just enough to allow you at least know what to google to learn more. Additionally, there are thoughtful, helpful indices in the back that provide a quick way of looking up what you need.