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That doesn't seem like a good use of time. I've tried reading through and doing the exercises in an abstract algebra textbook. It's a lot of work and the applic
by jeffreyrogers 9y ago
That doesn't seem like a good use of time. I've tried reading through and doing the exercises in an abstract algebra textbook. It's a lot of work and the applicability to real world problems is virtually non-existent. I think a more targeted approach would give you a better return on your time.
- dsacco 9y agoSure, I agree. Abstract algebra isn’t directly helpful. But: 1. The context is knowing more math than someone who has an undergraduate degree in it, 2. Abstract algebra is part of such a degree, and contributes significantly to overall mathematical maturity, and 3. You can avoid some subjects in the short term, but in the long term you can’t progress further without a reasonable mastery of algebra and analysis. Probability theory and linear algebra are heavily used in data science. You won’t be as competitive a candidate for a job if you don’t have a firm grasp of both subjects. At a certain point, linear algebra ceases to be distinct from abstract algebra, and those exercises you were doing become applicable to real world results.