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So I'm thinking of doing the following course progression:

Baby Rudin

Finite dimensional vector spaces Halmos

Abstract Algebra Herstein

Big Rudin (Real and complex analysis).

Is this a good course progression, assuming I already have calculus through multivariable, a decent understanding of differential equations, and a basic understanding of real analysis to begin with? Any suggestions with going through these books or time estimates for thoroughly working with the texts (preferably in hours, not days or weeks or anything like that)?

Thanks

EDIT: I am willing to commit 2-3 hours a day, occasionally more.

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    In that case, I would suggest nothing but linear algebra; when you are done with that, go to either Herstein *or* Baby Rudin, but not both together if you only have 2 hours a day. When you are done with one, go on to the other. I would e$x$pect basic linear algebra to take $y$ou about 30-36 weeks, Herstein (skipping Chapter 4 and 6 since you will have covered it in Linear Algebra) about 35-40 weeks, and about the same for baby Rudin, assuming you are doing them by themselves.2011-08-31

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Those are nice choices. If you haven't studied linear algebra before you may want to replace Halmos with a slightly more elementary book. I like Lang's linear algebra but just about any "Intro to Linear Algebra" book should do. No one can argue with you choosing both Rudins. Herstein is a fine book as well but the book by Dummit and Foote is only slightly more advanced and much more comprehensive (as well as readable). As far as the time you'll spend it's really hard to say. If you spent 2 hours a day in intensive seclusion studying these books I guess you could be done in a year. So 700-800 hours? Hope this helps.

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    700-800 hours was a bit of a wild guess. I think most would agree with me that after that much time you're not going to reach "Fahrenheit 451" status with any of these books. Assuming each hour is undistracted quality time it's possible you could have mostly vanquished the first three and started to make headway on big Rudin.2011-08-31