MATH 190 "Topics in Problem Solving"

Description

This class is primarily aimed at students with an interest in the problem solving approach to mathematics, and, in particular, at participants in college-level mathematics contests such as The William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition (85th edition, 12/7/2024). Our main goal will be to discuss and solve challenging, non-standard mathematical problems, which rely mostly on the material covered in the MATH 161-165/171-174 course series. We will particularly work on improving:

• our background of problem-solving techniques;
• our reaction time to decide upon a suitable strategy to solve a certain type of problem;
• our writing skills needed for mathematical arguments.

Grading

The grade for this course is entirely based on classroom attendance/participation (40%) and on a number of written assignments (60%). Out of the 7 assignments, only the best 5 will count towards your course grade. There will be no make-up homework.

The homework should be submitted by e-mail to the instructor as a single PDF file before the start of the following lecture.

You are responsible for knowing and abiding by the University of Rochester's academic honesty policy. Any violation of academic honesty will be pursued according to the specified procedures.

Extra resources

1. The following books on problem solving can be found as e-books on the website of the University of Rochester libraries:

• "Putnam and beyond" by Razvan Gelca and Titu Andreescu;
• "Problem-solving strategies" by Arthur Engel.

2. You might also find useful the largest online forum dedicated to problem solving, Art of Problem Solving.

Tentative weekly schedule