Logic & Problem-Solving

In this course, students will sharpen their ability to reason mathematically, which will benefit them in many STEM disciplines including computer science, physics and research mathematics. Students will learn to tolerate ambiguity, appreciate the impact of cognitive bias and ways to reduce its impact, and experience the use of analogical reasoning in problem-solving. They will explore the application of basic set theory, number theory and combinatorics, and use the concept of deduction to solve problems and win games. The goal is that students develop an intuitive feel and questioning mind about mathematical problems.

Gary Antonick wrote more than 300 columns over nine years for The New York Times, through which he collaborated with many of the world’s leading research mathematicians, discussing their favorite logic problems and techniques for solving them. He also taught intuitive thinking and mathematical reasoning at Stanford University for nine years, including a course with math superstar Keith Devlin called “Math in the Wild.” He has taught not only Stanford students but also Google engineers and high school students in China, India and Chile. Mr. Antonick studied physics and engineering at the University of Michigan and has an MBA from Harvard Business School.