Synopsis:
Offering a solid introduction to the entire modeling process, A FIRST COURSE IN MATHEMATICAL MODELING, 4th Edition delivers an excellent balance of theory and practice, and gives you relevant, hands-on experience developing and sharpening your modeling skills. Throughout, the book emphasizes key facets of modeling, including creative and empirical model construction, model analysis, and model research, and provides myriad opportunities for practice. The authors apply a proven six-step problem-solving process to enhance your problem-solving capabilities -- whatever your level. In addition, rather than simply emphasizing the calculation step, the authors first help you learn how to identify problems, construct or select models, and figure out what data needs to be collected. By involving you in the mathematical process as early as possible -- beginning with short projects -- this text facilitates your progressive development and confidence in mathematics and modeling.
Review:
"The approach to modeling is very solid, and corresponds with what I have seen as useful in teaching modeling at all levels for 25 years." Stephen J. Merrill, Marquette University. "The examples, projects, and exercises are excellent. Very varied and interesting, with a good mix of topics. It is great to be able to pick and choose from among the topics and examples. At the same time, there is nothing superfluous about the coverage." Libby Krussel, The University of Montana. "The authors keep a good balance of theory and practice, maintaining fidelity to the ideal of developing experience and skills in the modeling process, rather than overconcentrating on the mathematics of modeling. The revisions are thoughtful and strengthen the text, tying together more effectively the good selection of methods and applications contained in previous editions." Charles Landraitis, Boston College.
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