Linear Algebra Done Right

We recently added Sheldon Axler’s Linear Algebra Done Right to our list of approved textbooks. While Springer publishes a print edition, Axler recently made a PDF freely available online. The fourth edition of the book, released last month, contains many new examples and exercises.

This text, written to support a second course in linear algebra, provides a rigorous treatment of its subject with an emphasis on abstract vector spaces and linear maps. The “done right” in the title refers to the author’s perspective that the theory of eigenvalues and eigenvectors is best developed without relying on determinants. While the language is clear and precise, the tone is also colloquial and inviting.

In addition to the text, Axler’s website provides an extensive collection of videos, roughly one for each section of the book, and accompanying slides of lecture notes.

Website redesign

We have recently redesigned the website for the Open Textbook Initiative and moved it to a new server. While the visual appearance has changed somewhat, users should find that the content and its organization have not. If you notice any issues, please reach out and let us know.

As we continue our promotion of open-access mathematics textbooks, we plan to use this blog to announce newly approved books and to highlight other news from the open textbook community. We also welcome hearing from anyone interested in open texts, particularly authors and instructors looking to adopt a text, so please contact us at textbooks@aimath.org.