Problem Solving Through Problems

This is a practical anthology of some of the best elementary problems in different branches of mathematics. They are selected for their aesthetic appeal as well as their instructional value, and are organized to highlight the most common problem-solving techniques encountered in undergraduate mathematics. Readers learn important principles and broad strategies for coping with the experience of solving problems, while tackling specific cases on their own. The material is classroom tested and has been found particularly helpful for students preparing for the Putnam exam. For easy reference, the problems are arranged by subject. The purpose of this book is to isolate and draw attention to the most important problem-solving techniques typically encountered in undergradu ate mathematics and to illustrate their use by interesting examples and problems not easily found in other sources. Each section features a single idea, the power and versatility of which is demonstrated in the examples and reinforced in the problems. The book serves as an introduction and guide to the problems literature (e.g., as found in the problems sections of undergraduate mathematics journals) and as an easily accessed reference of essential knowledge for students and teachers of mathematics. The book is both an anthology of problems and a manual of instruction. It contains over 700 problems, over one-third of which are worked in detail. Each problem is chosen for its natural appeal and beauty, but primarily to provide the context for illustrating a given problem-solving method. The aim throughout is to show how a basic set of simple techniques can be applied in diverse ways to solve an enormous variety of problems. Whenever possible, problems within sections are chosen to cut across expected course boundaries and to thereby strengthen the evidence that a single intuition is capable of broad application. Each section concludes with "Additional Examples" that point to other contexts where the technique is appropriate."