Writing Project
Clear writing is essential to mathematical communication, and one of the goals of Math 171 is to help you learn to produce high-quality mathematical prose. Throughout the course you'll receive feedback on the solutions in your problem sets, but the writing prject gives you an opportunity to focus on your exposition, as opposed to absorbing new mathematical content.
The Project Details link below contains specifics on the assignment and deadlines, and you should read this very carefully. In brief, you will be provided with a sketch for the proof of an important theorem in analysis. Your paper should include a clear statement of the theorem, a detailed proof, and several illustrative examples. You will be asked to submit a draft to a classmate for editing, and your final grade will also reflect the quality of the feedback you give your classmates. This assignment will also provide an opportunity to learn to use the mathematical typesetting program LaTeX, and your final paper must be typed.
Deadlines and Logistics You have all been assigned a partner in the class with whom you can exchange papers for the review stage. I recommend using the deadlines in the Project Details handout, but individual pairs may make other arrangements as long as they provide enough time for review and revision before the (non-negotiable) May 23 deadline. On May 23 you should submit your final draft, your original draft, and any comments provided by your partner. Part of your final grade will be based on the quality of your feedback. If your project does not meet the standard for a B, you may be asked to resubmit a revised version. Finally, Zach Cohn (the WIM grader) will also be available for help with the writing project on Thursdays from 4 to 6.
| Project Details |
| This | has suggestions for the kind of feedback to give in the peer review stage of the writing project.
| Here's | some information to get you started using LaTeX.
| Here |
is a link to an article about writing mathematics well. Click on "In His Own Words".
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