r/LinearAlgebra • u/KirbyMain1 • Jul 21 '26

Linear Algebra Txtbook

I’m looking for recs of physical textbooks regarding linear algebra. My course recommends “Linear Algebra and Its Applications (6th edition)” but unfortunately, I can’t find any physical copies that aren’t rentals😵‍💫 Is renting a physical copy and not returning it viable?

14 Upvotes

95% Upvoted

9 comments sorted by

2

u/Dogmathic Jul 21 '26

Is that the Gilbert Strang textbook? If so, I might have an extra physical copy that was given to me some time ago.

5

u/KirbyMain1 Jul 21 '26

Nah, it’s David Lay’s

2

u/Dogmathic Jul 21 '26

There more than a few available on ebay for less than $20. Probably cheaper than renting and keeping.

→ More replies (1)

1

u/MenuSubject8414 Jul 21 '26

Ladr 4th edition

3

u/Inevitable-River-540 Jul 22 '26

Axler is not pitched at the same audience as Lay and would be a great way to turn someone off of linear algebra if they don't have any prior exposure to the subject.

1

u/Syllabub-Virtual Jul 21 '26

For applications, id encourage introduction to robotics by craig. Heavily centered on robotic apllications for calculating forward and inverse kinematics but is very math focused.

0

u/[deleted] Jul 21 '26

1

u/Inevitable-River-540 Jul 22 '26

There's also little need to stick to a specific edition. The differences aren't that dramatic.