📖 Overview
MATLAB Guide is a comprehensive reference book for MATLAB programming and numerical computing, written by mathematician Nicholas J. Higham. The text covers core MATLAB functionality, programming practices, and mathematical computation techniques.
The book combines technical instruction with practical examples drawn from scientific computing and numerical analysis applications. Each chapter contains detailed explanations of MATLAB commands and functions, along with code snippets and complete program examples.
The content progresses from basic MATLAB operations through advanced topics like object-oriented programming, parallel computing, and optimization. Reference sections provide quick access to syntax and usage information for hundreds of built-in MATLAB functions.
This guide emphasizes robust programming methodology and computational efficiency, making it relevant for both newcomers and experienced MATLAB users in scientific and engineering fields. The focus on numerical computing reflects MATLAB's origins and continued importance in technical computing applications.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe MATLAB Guide as a comprehensive reference manual rather than a beginner's tutorial. Reviews indicate it serves engineers, scientists, and mathematicians who already have MATLAB experience.
Liked:
- In-depth coverage of advanced topics and functions
- Clear explanations of MATLAB's numerical computing methods
- Quality code examples that demonstrate best practices
- Well-organized index for quick reference
- Focus on optimization and performance
Disliked:
- Too advanced for MATLAB beginners
- Dense technical writing style
- High price point compared to other MATLAB books
- Some reviewers found older editions outdated
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.1/5 (31 reviews)
Goodreads: 4.0/5 (20 ratings)
Specific Comments:
"Perfect desk reference but not for learning MATLAB from scratch" - Amazon reviewer
"The sections on matrix computations and optimization are excellent" - Goodreads user
"Would have benefited from more basic introductory material" - Engineering student reviewer
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🤔 Interesting facts
🔹 MATLAB Guide has been a trusted reference since its first edition in 2000, helping countless engineers and scientists navigate the complexities of MATLAB programming.
🔹 Author Nicholas J. Higham is Royal Society Research Professor and Richardson Professor of Applied Mathematics at The University of Manchester, and has been awarded the Nevanlinna Prize for his contributions to numerical analysis.
🔹 The book includes unique insights into MATLAB's development history, as Higham has worked closely with MathWorks (MATLAB's creator) and contributed to the software's evolution since the 1980s.
🔹 While most MATLAB books focus on specific applications, MATLAB Guide covers the language comprehensively, including advanced topics like object-oriented programming and creating graphical user interfaces.
🔹 The code examples in the book are regularly updated and maintained online, allowing readers to access the most current versions even years after publication.