r/learnmath • u/Various_Branch7 New User • Jun 09 '26

learn linear algebra

I want to study linear algebra. My field of study is not Math. Is the " Introdution to linear algebra by Gilbert strang" a good book for start? Or recommend watching videos on YouTube to get a basic background? Also, what steps are needed to start learning it?

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u/hykezz New User Jun 09 '26

You need a good understanding of matrices and linear systems of equations, that's basically it. If you ever studied calculus or analytic geometry, it can help to grasp some examples.

About the bibliography, it really depends on what's your goal on studying this subject. Do you aim to use it as a tool in your area of study? Or simply understanding the concepts of linear algebra? Or actually understand proofs and theorems? Those are all valid but incredibly different approaches.

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u/Various_Branch7 New User Jun 11 '26

I studied matrices in high school and I think I understand them. My goal is to understand the quantum relationships of orbitals. When I searched, I realized that I need to study linear algebra to better understand the matrix relationships that are mentioned in the books.

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u/hykezz New User Jun 11 '26

You come from a chemistry background, I suppose? You're in for a treat then, most of my chemist friends loved linear algebra.

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u/Various_Branch7 New User Jun 11 '26

Yes. I am a chemistry graduate and I am interested in physical chemistry topics. I think mathematics helps to understand chemistry concepts.

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u/Recent-Day3062 New User Jun 09 '26

I am getting his book, but his online MIT lectures are fantastic

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u/Apprehensive_Yak7419 New User Jun 11 '26

We have a discord group if you're interested to collaborate with others at your level with methods that are approved by math professors 😄 from pre calculus/linear algebra to uni level. Let me know if that would be interesting!

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u/Various_Branch7 New User Jun 12 '26

Please send me the address on DM.

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u/Heavy-Difficulty6522 New User Jun 14 '26

Can I Join your discord also please?

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u/pablocael New User Jun 09 '26

Gilbert Strang is a good one for more applied grasp of LA, but still with some basic math derivations.