What do you do when you can't follow a derivation in a book?

In summary, students often encounter unclear or poorly motivated derivations while studying. When facing this issue, they may try re-reading the material, making notes, using multiple resources, or seeking help online. Some students even create their own derivations to fully understand the material. It is important to not spend too much time on difficult derivations and to remember that seeing multiple explanations and applying the final result can help clarify the material. In addition, picking your battles and focusing on key derivations may be more beneficial in the long run.
  • #1
BucketOfFish
60
1
Sometimes when studying I'll run into a derivation that seems unclear, unmotivated, or which seems to require outside information. What do you do in those cases? Search online? Bang your head against the equations? Look for another book? I'm specifically asking about learning things on my own, where I can't just ask a professor or a friend who's taking the course.
 
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  • #2
Hmm. I re read it over n over again. Make notes in the text as to why things are true. Sometime the book just plain sucks. Rule of thumb. Have at least 2 books of the subject matter. If all fails type it on physicsforum.
 
  • #3
Ask someone to help here or on stack exchange.
 
  • #4
I totally understand what you mean because that frequently happens with me. What I try to do to get around this problem is follow some worked examples, put in guess work to understand the steps, and if all fails, find my own derivation. Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but finding your own derivation(and reaching the correct final equation of course! ) is probably the best way to understand something for good. You can always post your derivation here on PF and check if you did it right. Hope that helps :)
 
  • #5
This happens to me fairly often. Usually I would (roughly in order):
1. Bang my head against it
2. Try to find a better explanation online
3. Try to find a better explanation in a book at my school's library
4. Ask online or ask the professor

Don't spend too much time banging your head against it. I find that seeing multiple explanations from multiple people can really help to clear things up.

Also, sometimes if you leave it, move on, and then come back to it later, you'll find that things make more sense. Seeing how a result is used and applied can help motivate the derivation.

Finally, pick your battles. If you can understand and apply the final result, it may not be worth your time to fully understand the derivation (unless it's a really key derivation or the derivation is the result).
 

FAQ: What do you do when you can't follow a derivation in a book?

What do you mean by "derivation" in a book?

A derivation in a book refers to the step-by-step process of obtaining a mathematical result or proof. It is often used in scientific and mathematical literature to explain the reasoning behind a particular concept or theory.

Why is it important to understand derivations in a book?

Understanding derivations in a book is important because it allows for a deeper understanding of the underlying principles and logic behind a concept or theory. It also allows for the ability to apply the concept in different scenarios and to build upon it for further research.

What should I do if I can't follow a derivation in a book?

If you are having trouble following a derivation in a book, try breaking it down into smaller steps and reviewing each step carefully. You can also refer to other resources, such as online tutorials or asking a mentor or colleague for help. If necessary, it may also be helpful to go back and review any prerequisite knowledge that may be needed to understand the derivation.

Is it okay to skip a derivation in a book if I can't understand it?

It is not recommended to skip a derivation in a book, as it may be crucial to understanding the concept or theory being presented. However, if you have exhausted all resources and still cannot understand the derivation, it may be best to move on and revisit it at a later time when you have gained more knowledge and experience.

Are there any tips for following derivations in a book?

Some tips for following derivations in a book include practicing regularly, breaking down the derivation into smaller steps, seeking help from others, and using resources such as online tutorials or textbooks. It may also be helpful to make notes and create visual aids, such as diagrams or charts, to better understand the derivation.

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