How do mathematicians approach a problem, explore the possibilities, and develop an understanding of a whole area around it? The issue is not simply about obtaining the answer'; rather, Beardon explains that a mathematical problem is just one of many related ones that should be simultaneously investigated and discussed at various levels, and that understanding this is a crucial step in becoming a creative mathematician. The book begins with some good advice about procedure, presentation, and organization that will benefit every mathematician, budding, teaching or practiced. In the rest of the...

Provides readers with experience of working on difficult unsolved problems. No deep mathematical background is required.