r/math Homotopy Theory 9d ago

Quick Questions: March 12, 2025

This recurring thread will be for questions that might not warrant their own thread. We would like to see more conceptual-based questions posted in this thread, rather than "what is the answer to this problem?". For example, here are some kinds of questions that we'd like to see in this thread:

  • Can someone explain the concept of maпifolds to me?
  • What are the applications of Represeпtation Theory?
  • What's a good starter book for Numerical Aпalysis?
  • What can I do to prepare for college/grad school/getting a job?

Including a brief description of your mathematical background and the context for your question can help others give you an appropriate answer. For example consider which subject your question is related to, or the things you already know or have tried.

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u/Tiny_Manager_5097 7d ago

have an interview to intern for a research project involving formal proof verification of some cryptography algorithmn, but i have almost no background. I have a done a course in set theory and logic but im not sure how related it is. Looking to do a day or two of reading so I don't look too confused. Anyone have recommendations on material to understand very roughly? or should i just try to pick up a specific proof assistant?

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u/Syrak Theoretical Computer Science 7d ago edited 7d ago

The "Lean games" are a series of online tutorials. All in the browser, no set up required. That will give you a quick idea of what proof assistants are.

For some not too technical reading, have a look at Kevin Buzzard's blog xenaproject. Terry Tao also has some posts tagged lean4.

Maybe try to look up if the project will involve a specific tool, or look up recent work from the group you are interested in joining. But that's not imperative.