How to Study for a Mathematics Degree

Alcock’s work will definitely join my list of recommended books for maths undergraduates during their first year. ― Noel-Ann Bradshaw, Times Higher Education

I would recommend this book to all students who are starting their studies of Mathematics as a major, but also those who are still in school and thinking about their choice of university subjects. It is a small, useful book. ― Zuzana Hucki, London Mathematical Society

I do recommend this book – it is an excellent source of information and advice for new and existing students about what to expect from a typical mathematics degree, and how and why they should be prepared. ― Ken P. O’Neill AMIMA, Mathematics Today

I suspect anyone reviewing this book will say they wished it had been available back in their day (indeed, the two quotes on the cover of my copy do exactly that). I, however, will go slightly further and say that not only do I wish this book had been available ten years ago, I also wish I would have had the sense to read it. The time between finishing school and starting university is short, and in all the excitement of buying your own kettle and secretly thinking how much you’ll miss your old bedroom, it’s easy to forget the main reason you’re going. Reading one maths book won’t ruin your whole summer (I hope!), and How to Study for a Mathematics Degree is a fairly short and rather enjoyable read which could give you a head-start in university life that pays off for years to come. ― Michael Wallace, Significance

I wish I had a book like this 20 years ago. It would have helped me manage my time and learn a lot more than I did at that age! ― Dr Magdalena D. Toda, Director of Undergraduate Studies Dept. of Mathematics and Statistics, Texas Tech University, USA

This is an excellent book, which will be of great value to any sixth-former intending to embark on a mathematics-related university course, as well as to undergraduates already doing so. I cannot imagine a better book than this one for helping students to bridge the school-university gap. It would make an excellent gift for anyone thinking of studying mathematics at university and it belongs on every university reading list and in every school and university library. ― Colin Foster, July Mathematical Gazette

Making the transition from school-level to University-level mathematics is hard, in terms of the complexity of the subject matter, the rigour of thought, and the need to be able to study much more independently. This excellent and wide-ranging book engages with all these issues and more, giving a very helpful insight into what is coming for beginning undergraduates in mathematics or mathematics-related disciplines. I just wish this book had been available in my day! ― Dr Geoff Tennant, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics Education, Institute of Education, University of Reading, UK

Great advice for students who want to study math. Actually, good advice for all students. And, good advice for adults and professionals too. Alcock’s straightforward writing style and practical tips make the tallest mountains seem climbable with small steps. ― Matthew Leingang, Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, New York University