Schaum's Outline of Calculus, 5th ed. (Schaum's Outline Series) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This book's primary value is as a source of solved calculus problems. Although a concept discussion precedes each set of solved and supplemental problems, these discussions are extremely short, sometimes just a brief paragraph before problems are presented. The primary value of these discussions will be as a concise review for those already familiar with the areas covered.
Each of the fifty-nine chapters includes: 1) brief concepts discussions, 2) solved problems with fully-worked solutions, and 3) supplementary problems. The solved problems are excellent, providing a wide and comprehensive coverage of undergraduate calculus. However, the supplementary problems only provide answers, not fully worked solutions. Thus, readers who do not get matching answers may find it difficult to determine how the problem should be solved, Even if correct answers are obtained readers cannot be certain they approached the problem solution in the most appropriate manner. Thus, the supplemental problems provide little additional value beyond the traditional odd-numbered problems in typical class texts, for which answers without detailed solution steps are usually provided.
As with some other books of calculus problems, there are deficiencies in the solution approach to word problems involving dimensions. For example, in Chapter 20 although dimensions are given in the problem statements, the authors change to 'pure numbers' during the problem solution phase, leaving off dimensions until the final solution. This means there's no check that dimensions are being properly used during the problem solving process. The use of dimensionless numbers can make work 'cleaner', but it may also mask wrong answers. It always means that an additional check on the validity of a solution is missing. Also, as is common with many paperback review books, the paper appears to be low quality; some of my Schaum's editions less than a decade old are already starting to brown.
If your need is for first year calculus, you may also want to look at 'AP Calculus' preparation books. These typically have somewhat more detailed discussions, as well as fully-worked solutions to all problems.
Considering the relatively minor changes in this edition compared to the previous fourth edition, it may be worth considering that edition as an option, if you can obtain it at significantly reduced cost.
In summary, this edition is a good source of solved calculus problems at a quite reasonable price, with only some minor deficiencies and omissions.

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