How to Communicate Formally with Discrete Math

Computers are incredibly powerful tools, but at their core, they are not intelligent. They rely on humans to think for them and provide precise, unambiguous instructions. That’s where discrete mathematics comes in.

In this course, you will learn the mathematical language and tools to formally express ideas that can be translated into code. Discrete math will sharpen your logical reasoning skills and enable you to approach problems in a structured way, just like a computer. You’ll develop the ability to break down complex problems, notice patterns, and create abstractions - key skills for writing efficient and correct programs.

Far from being just theory, discrete math has countless real-world applications, from analyzing algorithms to designing digital circuits to managing databases to programming the next big social network. It provides a powerful toolbox to tackle computational challenges across domains.

Get ready for an exciting journey into the mathematical foundations that underpin computer science! Through hands-on problem solving and interactive lectures, you’ll build confidence in your ability to think like a computer scientist. The skills you gain will prepare you for advanced CS courses and serve you throughout your career.

Topics covered include:

• Sets, functions, and relations
• Counting and combinatorics (including permutations and combinations)
• Discrete probability
• Introduction to Logic (propositional and predicate)
• Elementary Methods of Proof
• Proofs by Induction (both weak and strong)
• Introduction to Graph Theory (including trees and planar graphs)

Whether your goal is to write more efficient code, contribute to cutting-edge research, or simply become a clearer thinker, this course will give you the foundations you need to succeed. Let’s explore the elegant world of discrete mathematics together!