Textbooks: Linear Algebra and Its Applications, 6th Edition (Lay, Lay, McDonald) vs. Principles of Microeconomics, 8th Edition (Mankiw)

Quick Verdict

Both textbooks are valuable resources for students. Linear Algebra and Its Applications is a comprehensive and clear introduction to linear algebra, suitable for self-study. Principles of Microeconomics offers an engaging and accessible approach to microeconomics with relevant real-world examples.

Both textbooks are well-regarded for their clear explanations and real-world applications.
Linear Algebra and Its Applications is known for its comprehensive coverage and suitability for self-study, while Principles of Microeconomics is praised for its engaging writing style and relevant examples.
Both books offer online resources to enhance student learning.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	Linear Algebra and Its Applications, 6th Edition (Lay, Lay, McDonald)	Principles of Microeconomics, 8th Edition (Mankiw)
Name	Linear Algebra and Its Applications, 6th Edition (Lay, Lay, McDonald)	Principles of Microeconomics, 8th Edition (Mankiw)
Authors	David C. Lay, Judi J. McDonald, and Steven R. Lay	N. Gregory Mankiw
Publisher	Pearson	Not available
Publication Date	July 9, 2020	2017
Edition	6th Edition	8th Edition
ISBNs	9780135851258, 0135851254, 9780135851043, 9780136847489, 013684748X	Not available
Length	672 pages	Not available
Key Topics	Linear Equations, Matrix Algebra, Determinants, Vector Spaces, Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors, Orthogonality and Least Squares, Symmetric Matrices and Quadratic Forms, Geometry of Vector Spaces, and Optimization.	Key microeconomic principles
Price	$129.28	Not available
Clarity	Clear exposition and accessible approach	Clear and engaging writing style, emphasizing key concepts without overwhelming detail.
Real-world Applications	Emphasizes relevant applications of linear algebra concepts; Includes introductory examples with linear models in economics and engineering	Extensive updates with relevant, meaningful, and current examples. Includes case studies.
Examples and Practice Problems	Offers plenty of problems to help students master the material; Features assignable algorithmic exercises; Includes simple numerical exercises	Provides sufficient examples. MindTap and Aplia digital course solutions offer resources to improve student engagement and retention.
Self-Study	Suitable for self-study due to clear explanations, examples, and online solutions	Considered suitable for self-study.
Online Resources	Offers new online resources; eText includes interactive figures	MindTap and Aplia offer digital learning and homework solutions. ConceptClip videos are available.

Overall Comparison

Linear Algebra and Its Applications: 6th Edition, 672 pages, Price: $129.28. Principles of Microeconomics: 8th Edition, Price: Not available.

Pros and Cons

Linear Algebra and Its Applications, 6th Edition (Lay, Lay, McDonald)

Pros:

Clear exposition and accessible approach
Introduces abstract concepts in a familiar, concrete setting (Rⁿ) and gradually develops them
Emphasizes relevant applications of linear algebra concepts
Includes introductory examples with linear models in economics and engineering
Offers plenty of problems to help students master the material
Features assignable algorithmic exercises
Includes simple numerical exercises to check understanding of basic procedures
Considered a good introductory textbook
Suitable for self-study due to clear explanations, examples, and online solutions
Provides a comprehensive treatment of orthogonality and the least-squares problem
Includes helpful explanations and illustrations
Offers new online resources
Includes updated exercises and new applications
Incorporates new material and topics related to current trends like machine learning and AI
Valuable resource for students and professionals
eText includes interactive figures to help students visualize the geometry of linear algebra

Cons:

No major disadvantages reported.

Principles of Microeconomics, 8th Edition (Mankiw)

Pros:

Clear and engaging writing style
Relevant and meaningful real-world examples
Sufficient practice problems and examples
Suitable for self-study
Includes visual aids and diagrams
Offers online resources
Comprehensive content
Respected author

Cons:

No major disadvantages reported.

User Experiences and Feedback

Linear Algebra and Its Applications, 6th Edition (Lay, Lay, McDonald)

What Users Love

Clear explanations
Relevant applications
Comprehensive coverage of linear algebra topics
Variety of resources to support student learning
Good introductory textbook
Suitable for self-study

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

Valuable resource for students and professionals

Principles of Microeconomics, 8th Edition (Mankiw)

What Users Love

Clear explanations of complex concepts
Real-world examples and applications
Sufficient practice problems
Suitable for self-study
Visual aids enhance understanding

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

Good value for the price