Instructs students on the primary basic logic of mathematical proofs, showing how proofs of mathematical statements work. The title provides basic core techniques of how to read and write proofs through examples.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Proofs” instructs students on the primary basic logic of mathematical proofs, showing how proofs of mathematical statements work. The text provides basic core techniques of how to read and write proofs through examples. The basic mechanics of proofs are provided for a methodical approach in gaining an understanding of the fundamentals to help students reach different results. A variety of fundamental proofs demonstrate the basic steps in the construction of a proof and numerous examples illustrate the method and detail necessary to prove various kinds of theorems.
Jumps right in with the needed vocabulary-gets students thinking like mathematicians from the beginningOffers a large variety of examples and problems with solutions for students to work through on their ownIncludes a collection of exercises without solutions to help instructors prepare assignmentsContains an extensive list of basic mathematical definitions and concepts needed in abstract mathematics

Antonella Cupillari is an associate professor of mathematics at Pennsylvania State Erie in Behrend College. She received her Laurea in Mathematics in Italy, and her M.A. and Ph.D. at the State University of New York at Albany. She has been a participant in the Mathematical Association of America/National Science Foundation Institute on the “History of Mathematics and Its Use in Teaching.” Cupillari is the author of several papers in analysis, mathematics education, and the history of mathematics. She is also the author of the first edition of The Nuts and Bolts of Proofs.