Linear Algebra From The Beginner to Jordan Normal Form

An introduction to linear algebra

Unlock the power of linear algebra, vectors, matrices, and transformations with geometric interpretations.

This book presents the main concepts of linear algebra from the viewpoint of applied scientists such as computer scientists and engineers, without compromising on mathematical rigor. Based on the idea that computational scientists and engineers need, in both research and professional life, an understanding of theoretical concepts of mathematics in order to be able to propose research advances and innovative solutions, every concept is thoroughly introduced and is accompanied by its informal interpretation. Furthermore, most of the theorems included are first rigorously proved and then shown in practice by a numerical example. When appropriate, topics are presented also by means of pseudocodes, thus highlighting the computer implementation of algebraic theory.

Unlock the power of linear algebra, vectors, matrices, and transformations with geometric interpretations.

This book is based on a course for first-semester science students, held by the second author at the University of Zurich several times. Its goal is threefold: to have students learn a minimal working knowledge of linear algebra, acquire some computational skills, and familiarize them with mathematical language to make mathematical literature more accessible. Therefore, we give precise definitions, introduce helpful notations, and state any results carefully worded. We provide no proofs of these results but typically illustrate them with numerous examples. Additionally, for better understanding, we often give supporting arguments for why they are valid.