The Art of Problem Solving
by Richard Rusczyk, Sandor Lehoczky · first published 2006
84% recommend16% neutral
Why HN recommends it
Problem-focused math series that builds intuition and explains the reasons behind methods, going deeper than standard school curricula. Suits kids, self-learners, and adults wanting competition-level math practice.
Summarised by Claude from recommending comments
The Art of Problem Solving, Volume 1, is the classic problem solving textbook used by many successful MATHCOUNTS programs, and have been an important building block for students who, like the authors, performed well enough on the American Mathematics Contest series to qualify for the Math Olympiad Summer Program which trains students for the United States International Math Olympiad team. Volume 1 is appropriate for students just beginning in math contests. MATHCOUNTS and novice high school students particularly have found it invaluable. Although the Art of Problem Solving is widely used by st
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…growing up include Concepts of Modern Mathematics by Ian Stewart (Dover reprint) Numbers and Geometry by John Stillwell (Springer) Vision in Elementary Mathematics by W. W. Sawyer (Dover reprint) The Art of Problem Solving by Sandor Lehoczky and Richard Rusczyk (Art of Problem Solving) A frequently recommended book for this need is Developing Math Talent by Susan Assouline and Ann Lupkowski-Shoplik, but I haven't made…
on “Ask HN: Books for Parents of Mathematics-Loving Children?” ↗the lack of intuitive explanations for math is a major pet peeve of mine I'm a very visual thinker, and that is one reason I enjoy the new Art of Problem Solving textbook Prealgebra by Richard Rusczyk, David Patrick, and Ravi Boppana-- https://www.artofproblemsolving.com/Store/viewitem.php?item=... it is full of interesting visual "explanations" and substitute…
on “What does 0^0 equal? Why do mathematicians and high school teachers disagree?” ↗The level of math amenable to apps isn't really what Su is talking about. I would suggest learning proofs, and maybe pick up some Art of Problem Solving books. Or perhaps working through the foundational curriculum of any decent math program (e.g., algebra, analysis, topology, number theory, etc.).
on “To Live Your Best Life, Do Mathematics” ↗The key is to do lots of problems. Toward this, I highly recommend "The Art of Problem Solving" which is packed full of neat insights and interesting problems from math competitions (at an "advanced high school" level). https://www.amazon.com/Art-Problem-Solving-Vol-Basics/dp/097...
on “Ask HN: How do I re-learn maths as a middle-age person?” ↗Depending on your mathematical background, you might find working through the Art of Problem Solving books [0] good preparation as they would build an incredible mathematical foundation for you. Honestly after working through those books, you could probably complete self-studying an undergraduate mathematics…
on “Knuth's Art of Computer Programming, V 4B, has gone into print” ↗If you want a good "non-linear" math book, try the Art Of Problem Solving volumes.
on “Math is not linear, so why do we teach it like that?” ↗…Zero to Infinity: What Makes Numbers Interesting by Constance Reid http://www.amazon.com/Zero-Infinity-Makes-Numbers-Interestin... is very accessible and covers a number of interesting topics. The Art of Problem Solving by Richard Rusczyk and Sandor Lehoczky http://www.artofproblemsolving.com/Store/viewitem.php?item=p... http://www.artofproblemsolving.com/Store/viewitem.php?item=p... is a straight-up contest preparation…
on “Ask HN: What books would you give a 16-year old interested in Math?” ↗…teach some advanced stuff. Books that the parent's might like are Carol Dweck's Mindset, Barbara Oakley's A Mind for Numbers, and Angela Duckworth's Grit. If she shows an interest in mathematics, the Art of Problem Solving books and forums are great.
on “Ask HN: 12 year old tech savvy girl – books, programs, events, advice?” ↗…shape. I struggled a lot but ultimately I believe I am better at thinking because of it. If you want some books: The textbook we used: https://www.amazon.com/Geometry-Ray-C-Jurgensen/dp/039597727... The Art of Problem Solving: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Problem-Solving-Vol-Basics/dp/097... AoPS is pretty good but more geared toward math competitions. The reading is ok but the problems take some serious thought and if you…
on “What STEM Students Need to Know” ↗The Art of Problem Solving books are great if you want to relearn pre-college math at a deeper and more advanced level so that your foundation is all the stronger for university level math.
on “How to Study Mathematics (2017)” ↗The Art of Problem Solving books are great and really focus on understanding the concepts deeply. The problem selection varies widely in difficulty and they all have corresponding solution manuals so you can check your answers…
on “Intermediate Algebra” ↗The Art of Problem Solving books are great and have complete solution manuals available as well.
on “Ask HN: Which books in your field do you think are perfect for self study?” ↗…get the juice out of it and have a clear understanding of the subject. I’ll suggest starting with Concrete Mathematics by Donald Knuth, it’s a beautiful book that catches the essence of mathematics. Art of problem solving(https://www.amazon.in/Art-Problem-Solving-Basics/dp/09773045...) is also a great start, especially if you don’t have much experience.
on “Ask HN: Math books that made you significantly better at math?” ↗The Art of Problem Solving: https://artofproblemsolving.com/store/book/aops-vol1 Yes, it is targeted towards middle and high school students. Yes, I read it and (more importantly) worked through most of the problems in my mid-30's.…
on “Ask HN: Math books that made you significantly better at math?” ↗…Combinatorics" by J.H. van Lint and Wilson - provided a comprehensive introduction to combinatorics, and it helped me develop a strong understanding of combinatorial techniques and their applications. "The Art of Problem Solving" by Richard Rusczyk - This book is a comprehensive guide to problem-solving, with a focus on mathematical problem-solving strategies. It helped me develop my problem-solving skills and learn how to think…
on “Ask HN: Math books that made you significantly better at math?” ↗