MATH 323 Linear Algebra (2021 Spring)

Homework Assignment I
Homework Assignment II
Homework Assignment III
Homework Assignment IV
Homework Assignment V
Homework Assignment VI
Homework Assignment VII
Homework Assignment VIII
Homework Assignment IX
Homework Assignment X

Lecture 1
Lecture 2
Lecture 3
Lecture 4
Lecture 5
Lecture 6
Lecture 7
Lecture 8
Lecture 9
Lecture 10
Lecture 11
Lecture 12
Lecture 13
Lecture 14
Lecture 15
Lecture 16
Lecture 17
Lecture 18
Lecture 19
Lecture 20
Lecture 21
Lecture 22
Lecture 23
Lecture 24
Lecture 25

An Unofficial Syllabus (updated 01/18/2021)

In this course we will learn the abstract aspects of linear algebra. We will also get a solid training on writing rigorous mathematical proofs. MATH 323 is supposed to surpass the "generic" linear algebra course (MATH 304) in both depth and breadth, and the honor section will pose more challenges than the other sections.
To meet the school's minimal requirement of formaity, there is the official website on Canvas where you can find the official syllabus. Feel free to make suggestions on utilizing the functions of Canvas.

Basic Information

  • Grades: 30%Homework + 30%Midterm + 40%Final, Attendance will be a small factor.
  • Homework is assigned each week and due the next Tuesday (before the Tuesday class). Ms. Yahan Xu is the grader and she will collect, grade, and record the homework grades. Later submissions are accepted for medical or very unusual reasons. Other late submissions will be accepted (within one or two days) with only 50% credit.
  • Office Hour: Monday 3PM-4PM over Zoom (see Zoom meeting information in the syllabus).

    • Textbooks and References

    The main textbook is
  • Friedberg, Insel, and Spence Linear Algebra (4th edition)
    This is not the newest edition (which is the 5th edition). The 4th edition has the same structure and should have a better price.

    • Just to mention another one which can be a good reference is
  • Sheldon Axler Linear Algebra Done Right
    It has a quite different structure but somewhat enlightening.

    • Expectation

    I expect students to commit a substantial amount of time and effort to self-study, especially reading the textbook before the class. I will provide as much support as you need for your success in this course.

    About the Pandemic

  • The course will be delivered over Zoom (or unlikely, but possibly some other platform). It is a challenge to both students and the instructor as online learning significantly limits the interaction among students and between students and the instructor. I will try my best to provide opportunities to enhance the interaction.
  • Since I have not taught until this semester, I have very limited experience of remote teaching. I apologize for all the trivial technical issues and for behaving like an inexperienced teacher.