How to Solve It

A collection of practical lessons that demonstrates how the true mathematician learns to draw unexpected analogies, tackle problems from unusual angles, and extract information from the data.

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The definitive guide to mathematical problem solving, from one of the great teachers of the twentieth century

George Pólya's perennial bestseller has inspired generations around the world to think more clearly. Brilliantly showing how 'there is a grain of discovery in the solution of any problem', his strategies for mathematical problem-solving - from finding weak points to squeezing the data - will help get to the bottom of any puzzle.

'A superb book on how to think fresh thoughts ... A walk inside Pólya's mind as he builds up maxims on how to comprehend a problem, how to build up a strategy, and then how to test it' David Bodanis, Guardian

'Everyone should know the work of George Polya on how to solve problems' Marvin Minsky

'A classic ... It is the outcome of careful and informed deliberation by one of the great teachers among the ranks of research mathematicians' Ian Stewart, author of Does God Play Dice?

'Every prospective teacher should read it' E. T. Bell