Calculus I Textbook Recommendation

The Contenders Calculus: Early Transcendentals, 4th Edition by James Stewart Vs. Calculus with Analytic Geometry, 5th Edition by Howard Anton

Evaluation Criteria Section Introductions The chapter sections should have an introduction stating the section’s objective so students know immediately what they should learn from each section. In-Chapter Example Problems The chapter sections should include at least one example to illustrate what was taught in each section.

Evaluation Criteria Graphics The graphics should be used liberally to illustrate concepts, example problems, end- of-chapter problems, and problem solutions. End-of-Chapter Problems The end-of-chapter problems should be plentiful and range from easy to difficult. Students’ Solution Manual The students’ solutions manual should provide the student with detailed solutions to a large number of the book’s end-of-chapter problems.

Section Introductions Anton Provides concise section introductions for each and every section Anton introduction to section on derivatives Stewart Generally does not provide introductions and jumps right into material

In-Chapter Example Problems Both books have adequate example problems. The books essentially tie under this criterion.

Graphics Both books have very similar graphics. Both are very good. Stewart’s graphical explanation of the derivative Anton’s graphical explanation of the derivative

End-of-Chapter Problems Anton Problems are more interesting and grouped more logically Stewart Problems are often boring

Students’ Solutions Manual Little distinction can be made between the two Both have solutions to approximately half the end-of-chapter problems Neither is incredibly detailed

Recommendation Although both books are good books, I recommend Anton’s because of his very useful section introductions. The introductions orient students quickly, so they know exactly what the section is trying to accomplish.