BOOKS
Fall 2010

The approach to vector calculus used in this course emphasizes geometric visualization and conceptual understanding, not just algebraic manipulation. This approach has been developed as part of a national effort to improve the teaching of vector calculus. Further information can be found on the project website.

This approach can not be found in any current textbook.

Regular class attendance is strongly encouraged.

Several books and study guides are listed below. You are encouraged to use any or all of these resources for guidance in learning the material, but do not expect any of them to be sufficient by themselves. The only way to master the material is to solve problems, both assigned and unassigned, and to work through the tasks which will be distributed during recitation.

Official Textbook:

• William Briggs & Lyle Cochran, Multivariable Calculus, 1st edition, Pearson, 2010.
  Here's my current understanding:
  • If you took MTH 251 or MTH 252 at OSU last year, the publisher will provide you with a copy of this text free of charge this term. Details are below.
  • Other students should purchase a copy of the text. Please note that there are multiple flavors; either "Multivariable Calculus" or the longer "Single Variable Calculus: Early Transcendentals" should contain the correct material.
  Further comments:
  • We will not make direct use of the online electronic supplements ("MyMathLab"), although you may find them helpful.
  • It is possible, but not recommended, to take this course without purchasing the textbook, so long as you have access to a copy in order to obtain the assigned homework problems. (We anticipate placing a copy of the text on reserve at the library.)

Study Guide:

• Harold Parks, MTH 254 Study Guide, 2010.
  A CD containing an electronic copy of this study guide in PDF format will be given to you during the first recitation meeting, at no additional charge. (The cost is covered by the materials fee paid at registration.)

Online Text:

• Tevian Dray & Corinne A. Manogue, The Geometry of Vector Calculus, 2009–2010.
  This text is an excerpt from a larger project, whose home page is here. This book closely reflects the course content, but is a work in progress, so check often for updates. Comments welcome!

Web Study Guide (old):

• Web Study Guide for Math 254, Department of Mathematics, OSU, 1996.
  This old study guide no longer has any direct connection with the course. Nonetheless, you may find it useful.

Here is the official Department of Mathematics announcement regarding the availability of a free textbook:

• Students who were at OSU last year, and who took MTH 251 or MTH 252 last year, and purchased the Hughes Hallett calculus text, are eligible to either borrow a hard copy of the new Briggs/Cochran, Calculus: Early Transcendentals text for this year, or to receive an electronic version of the new text.
• Pearson Publishing representatives will be in the Mathematics Learning Center for the first three days of the term to ensure you receive your choice of a e-text or a hard copy for loan. You will receive more details on the first day of class.
• Students who are new to OSU this year, or who have not taken MTH 251 or MTH 252 in the past year should purchase the multivariable version of the Briggs/Cochran, Calculus: Early Transcendentals custom edition for Oregon State University. Exceptional cases can be dealt with during the first few days of classes.