Textbooks: Principles of Economics (9th Edition) by N. Gregory Mankiw vs. Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition) by David C. Lay
Quick Verdict
Both textbooks are well-regarded for their clarity and application-focused approach. Principles of Economics (9th Edition) is more broadly accessible and comes with comprehensive support materials, while Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition) is tailored for students in linear algebra courses and incorporates modern applications like machine learning.
- Both textbooks emphasize clear explanations and real-world applications to enhance understanding.
- Principles of Economics (9th Edition) is designed for a broad audience and includes MindTap digital resources, while Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition) targets undergraduate and graduate students with MyLab Math.
- Principles of Economics has a solutions manual available, whereas the availability of a complete solutions manual for Linear Algebra is uncertain.
- Both are considered suitable for self-study.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Principles of Economics (9th Edition) by N. Gregory Mankiw | Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition) by David C. Lay |
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Overall Comparison
Principles of Economics (9th Edition): Original Price $323.95, Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition): Price Varies, MyLab Math is an additional cost.
Pros and Cons
Principles of Economics (9th Edition)
Pros:
- Clear and engaging writing style
- Insightful explanations of complex economic principles
- Real-world examples and case studies
- Updated examples and applications reflecting current economic issues and data
- Comprehensive textbook introducing fundamental concepts and theories of economics
- Accessible to students of all backgrounds
- Solutions manual available
- Easy to read and understand for self-study
- MindTap digital course solutions and student-focused resources
Cons:
- No major disadvantages reported.
Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition)
Pros:
- Clear exposition and learner-friendly approach
- Relevant, contemporary applications of linear algebra concepts
- Solid foundation in linear algebra principles
- Fresh problems and exercises designed for computer programs
- New material, examples, online resources, topics, vignettes, and applications in the 6th edition
- Availability of MyLab Math with digital tools and a flexible platform
- Enhances the geometric flavor of linear algebra
- Suitable for self-study
Cons:
- A complete solutions manual may not be available
- MyLab Math is an additional cost
User Experiences and Feedback
Principles of Economics (9th Edition)
What Users Love- Clear and understandable explanations of core concepts
- Effective use of real-world examples
- Up-to-date content with significant improvements over previous editions
- Helpful supplemental materials
- Well-organized and visually appealing layout
- Caters to different learning styles
Common Complaints- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations- The textbook is known for its clear and engaging writing style, offering insightful explanations of complex economic principles in an accessible manner.
- Mankiw simplifies complex economic theories using clear and concise language.
- The book consistently integrates real-world examples and case studies, connecting theoretical frameworks to practical applications.
- The 9th edition includes updated examples and applications reflecting current economic issues and data.
- The 9th edition includes extensive updates and relevant contemporary examples. The latest examples and learning features clarify and bring economic principles to life.
Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th Edition)
What Users Love- Clear and understandable explanations of core concepts
- Uses real-world examples to illustrate theoretical concepts
- Appropriate mathematical level for the intended audience
- Up-to-date content with significant improvements in the latest edition
- Helpful supplemental materials such as online resources and study guides
- Well-organized and visually appealing layout
- Caters to different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
Common Complaints- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception- The value is enhanced by the inclusion of real-world applications and supplemental materials.
User Recommendations- The textbook is designed with a learner-friendly approach, introducing challenging concepts early and gradually developing them.
- The 6th edition includes new, modernized applications to prepare students for innovative topics like machine learning and AI.
- The book is geared toward a general audience, focusing on clear exposition.
- MyLab Math offers digital tools and a flexible platform to personalize learning.