Q&A: What types of math do I need to know to understand the mathematics of the General Theory of Relativity?

by dotmatrixproject

Question by James1126: What types of math do I need to know to understand the mathematics of the General Theory of Relativity?

I've been a self-studying physics student and have understood the concepts involving the Special and General Theories of Relativity for a while now. I want to go to the next level now by taking on the mathematics. Thank you for your help!
I've been a self-studying physics student and have understood the concepts involving the Special and General Theories of Relativity for a while now. I want to go to the next level now by taking on the mathematics.

I understand there are a lot of different mathmatical disciplines involved, but I'm sure there's a starting place. Since I am a self-study I need to know what math books to get from Barnes & Nobles. (I got a gift card for Christmas.) Thank you.
I'm a beginner in math. I'm no dummy though so don't roll your eyes! Get real basic with me like "Algebra > Calculus > I don't know after that. :("
Thank you all for your help. Seems like I'm finally going to have to take up calculus. I kept putting it off; now it's time I guess. I'll start out with Calculus For Dummies. I hear that's what Newton used to get started so it must be good. Thanks Again.




Best answer:

Answer by rhsaunders
Unfortunately, lots. Differential geometry and tensor calculus are among the subjects that you will need to understand.

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