Calculus: Concepts and Contexts

by James Stewart

Stewart's remarkable new calculus text signals the meeting of two schools of thought at one historic junction. Concepts and Contexts, Single Variable maintains mathematical integrity as it skillfully merges the best of traditional calculus with the best of the reform movement. Written from the ground up, this all-new text takes students beyond memorization and helps them to develop mathematical thinking skills. In Concepts and Contexts, Single Variable, this well-respected author emphasizes conceptual understanding--motivating students with real world applications and stressing the Rule of Four in numerical, visual, algebraic, and verbal interpretations. All concepts are presented in the classic Stewart with simplicity, character, and attention to detail. In addition to his clear exposition, Stewart also creates well thought-out problems and exercises. The definitions are precise and the problems create an ideal balance between conceptual understanding and algebraic skills.

Genres: Mathematics, Reference, Textbooks, Technical, Calculus, Engineering, Nonfiction

Hardcover

First published June 1, 1997

About the author

James Stewart is a professor of mathematics and a violinist. He has written a number of textbooks, notably on calculus.

For other James Stewarts, see similar names.

Reviews

[frances · Rating 1 out of 5]

This text book provides completely inadequate chapter examples and problem sets. instead of gradually increasing the complexity of the problems, this book jumps from extremely basic to the complex very abruptly. if you have previously studied calculus and are retaking the courses (why you would do this, i have no idea), you may be able to learn from this book. however, it is not sufficient for a first introduction to the topic. be prepared to supplement with other books such as Calculus Problem Solver (REA) (Problem Solvers), Calculus for Dummiesand Calculus Workbook For Dummies (Dummies Series).

[Thea M. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have the second edition because of price but I’m not sure if any of these have been fixed in the newer edition.

For context, I came from the “precalculus an investigation of functions” by David Lippman and Melonie Rasmussen edition 2.3. Where examples and concepts were clearly written, ideas color coded to jump out, and there were multiple examples per topic.

This is my first time learning calculus, and coming from teaching myself through the textbook rather than videos, I thought I could just read it and be fine. This textbook however, does not provide adequate examples and is way too wordy. This review is independent of any type of class, so I am reviewing as if I was solely trying to learn calculus from this textbook.

This textbook muddles down concepts in useless words such as “You may have the feeling that the calculations used in solving this problem are very similar to those used earlier..” (99) This could easily have been written in half the words about how this topic is connected to a previous topic.

Also there were very little written about other topics. I found the explanation of Taylor Polynomials (257ish) to be quite brief. Again, there are very few examples per topic. While this may be because of the length it makes it challenging to learn. If there is only one example per topic and the explanation is wordy and hard to understand. It doesn’t make a well rounded text book.

I would recommend trying to find another textbook if possible. (If I find a better one I’ll put it below) (I AM ALSO TAKING RECS)


Precalc textbook link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...

[Tom Quast · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a thoroughly describes Calculus, from the basics to advanced themes. All 1000+ pages are filled to the brim with mathematical proofs, exercises and examples.

The Good
- Chapter structure makes sense
- Thorough explanations with illustrations
- Overall high quality of content and exercises.

The Bad
- The size of the book
- The jumps in complexity can be abrupt
- Requires readers focus and will to learn complex concepts

Conclusion
A good book to read if you want to learn calculus. If you do not expect to find an easy to read book, but are willing to invest time and dedication to learning calculus, this book is made for you.

[Duga]

I want to read

[Bilgewater · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have the hardcover of this book. It's a single variable calculus book starting with the basic fundamentals and moving up through differentials and integrals, making it a perfect place to start after mastering basic functions and trigonometry. Plenty of exercises and examples to help you get a feel for the material. One of the best and most readable higher math books I've ever read.

[Heather Mayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went back over this book this past summer. It is just excellent. It provides good examples and applications (often missing from math books). Photocopies of the helpful tables at the front and back of the book travel with me.

[Ohud Saud · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love Math. you will enjoy reading this book. It won't be challenging especially if you have a good teacher.
I read it for my calculus class and solve almost every single problem listed!
However, I am not sure if I read this edition or a new one.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ah, calculus :)

[Rex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great calculus text.

[enitsirK · Rating 5 out of 5]

...maybe because I actually liked the class and the subject itself-- just like putting pieces of a puzzle together. Good times. ;P