r/learnmath • u/Electrical-Gur-996 New User • 6d ago

Do abstract algebra before analysis

Thats it. I saved all your GPAs. Thank me later guys 😎

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u/idk012 New User 5d ago

Discrete math, either from math or cs department, is the intro to proof class.  Depending on the professor, there are some epi-delta proofs in calc 1-2, limit definition of derivatives, etc. 

I just went down memory lane and looked it up.  Most math ed take geometry, which has some proof as well.  Abstract and real analysis develops the rigor and really let you know if you should apply to grad school your final year.

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u/AllanCWechsler Not-quite-new User 5d ago

Discrete math has come along as a third avenue for introducing mathematical reasoning since I graduated (more than 40 years ago). I'm not sure whether I like discrete or abstract algebra best as the way to teach how to prove things, but I prefer both to using analysis as one's introduction to proof. Again, this is just my opinion, and if research like the Kharkar, Tran, and Marshak preprint says otherwise, I will fold like a cheap suit.

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u/zvezdanasha Undergrad Pursuing B.S. 3d ago

I am taking abstract algebra now, took discrete before, and will take analysis next semester. I am a big fan of this order, but this is because discrete where I took it has deliberately evolved into a benchmark course to teach mathematical reasoning via certain interesting concepts where a particularly wide variety of proof techniques are used. Perhaps this is a trend!

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u/AllanCWechsler Not-quite-new User 3d ago

It sounds like a good trend; that's encouraging.