Jagella

Andrew Wiles proved Fermat's Last Theorem in 1995. I understand his proof is 200 pages long. He used modern math which was not available in Fermat's day. So in a sense the mystery is yet to be solved. Can Fermat's Last Theorem be solved using the math available in Fermat's day?

Jagella

...using computer algebra systems and similar is now common in research. One does not want to waste time with boring calculations that are part of something bigger, or are straight forward but cumbersome and long.

I often use pen and paper for the basic ideas--ideas that don't require rigorous computational accuracy. This method helps me to think about the underlyng reasoning without the many distractions inherent in computers. I then often move on to the computer to check my work. I use software to do the calculations that are too complex to do manually and to draw precise geometric shapes if need be.

Recently I was studying logarithms. I wanted to get an idea about how to use them to do calculations. I then checked my answers using my computer. I think it was a good way to get a feel for how math evolves and what a boon computers are to the study and application of math.

Jagella

I have some, but I am curious why you are asking. I'll just be blunt, is this for a homework question or similar? It just seems a little too pre-packaged to me...

I'm not in formal schooling, so no, this is not a homework question.

When Andrew Wiles proved Fermat's Last Theorem, I understand that he did not use a computer. So computers are not always indispensable in math studies. I'm wondering why computers might not always be helpful in mathematics.

Jagella

What do you thing about it?

I think that in most ways computers have been a tremendous boon to learning and applying math. Often, though, I've found that scribbling on a piece of paper can be faster and easier than using a computer. Using pen and paper frees me from the strictures of the PC allowing me to think about the math rather than which keys to press on the keyboard or mouse.

Jagella

I make use of computer a LOT in my math studies. My PC helps me to reduce errors, research questions if I'm having difficulty, crunch numbers, create geometric figures, graph data and functions, and interact with a lot of smart, like-minded people like you.

Anyway, can any of you think about the down-side of computers in math studies?

Jagella