Understanding Mathematics by Peter Alfeld, Department of Mathematics, University of Utah

Do you feel that the solution of problems requires a collection of tricks whose conception was based on a generous allowance of magic?

If you do feel this way that means that you don't yet understand this particular piece of mathematics.

Actually the "tricks" were discovered in a lengthy process requiring the solution of many problems similar to the one you are trying to solve. There were many detours, each teaching something, until the finally successful " trick" was conceived. You can save some of the labor and detours by reading a book or a paper, but to appreciate what you read you need to have some experience, the result of some activity, in the area you are reading about.

Fine print, your comments, more links, Peter Alfeld, PA1UM

[16-Aug-1996]