Both 'Calculus: Early Transcendentals' and 'Linear Algebra and Its Applications' are well-regarded textbooks that offer clear explanations, numerous examples, and real-world applications. 'Calculus' is more tailored to STEM undergraduates and uses WebAssign, while 'Linear Algebra' is suitable for a broader audience with a calculus background and incorporates MATLAB. The choice depends on the specific course requirements and the student's field of study.
| Attribute | Calculus: Early Transcendentals (James Stewart, 9th Edition) | Linear Algebra and Its Applications (David C. Lay, 6th Edition) |
|---|---|---|
| Clarity of explanations | Clear and concise writing style, accessible to a wide range of students. Complex concepts are broken down into manageable steps with examples and diagrams. | Known for its clarity, demystifying complex concepts, and building an intuitive understanding of linear algebra's fundamental principles. Concepts are introduced early in a familiar setting and developed gradually. |
| Examples and practice problems | Numerous exercises, categorized by difficulty, allowing for tailored learning. Solved examples and exercise problems ranging from introductory to advanced levels. Over 20% of the exercises are new. | Offers new material and examples. There is an abundant supply of exercises ranging from routine computations to conceptual questions. A test bank with practice problems is also available. |
| Real-world applications | Effectively connects theoretical concepts with practical applications across various disciplines, including science, engineering, economics, and business. Real-world examples demonstrate the relevance of calculus. | A contemporary introduction with broad, relevant applications of concepts and skills. It effectively demonstrates real-world applications of the concepts. |
| Availability of solutions manual | A student solutions manual is available, containing worked solutions to the odd-numbered problems in the text. | An instructor's solutions manual exists. A solutions manual for the global edition is also available. Some prefer an actual solutions manual rather than an online study guide. |
| Use of technology (e.g., graphing calculators, software) | Integrates technology, and the accompanying WebAssign includes learning support and interactive learning modules. | Provides substantial support for using technology in the course. MATLAB code is used throughout the book. |
| Organization and structure of content | Well-organized and structured in a logical and sequential manner, facilitating a smooth progression through the subject matter. The "Early Transcendentals" approach introduces exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions early. | The content is well-organized and structured in a logical manner. |
| Rigor and mathematical accuracy | Known for its mathematical precision and accuracy. | The book strikes a good balance between mathematical rigor and accessibility. |
| Supplementary materials (e.g., online resources) | WebAssign includes helpful learning support and new resources like Explore It interactive learning modules. | Offers new online resources. Supplementary exercises are included in each chapter. Online resources and a test bank are available. |
| Visual aids and diagrams | Includes illustrations and graphs to help students visualize concepts. | Includes visual aids. |
| Target audience/level of difficulty | Recommended for students of undergraduate mathematics, engineering, and physical sciences. | General audience. Accessible to students who have completed two semesters of college-level mathematics, usually calculus |
| Edition and publication year | 9th edition, published in 2020. | 6th Edition, 2020 |
| Cost (new, used, rental) | New: around $146.24, Used: From $43.84, Rental: From $20.11, Digital: From $64.99 | eTextbook: From $8.49/month, Print: $84.99, eTextbook Rental: 6-month access: $8.49/month or one-time payment of $50.94, Single-term access: $94.99, Multi-term access: $154.99, Used: From $137.19, Rental: From $50.94 |