7
Write Your Math Well
Properly formulated mathematical arguments are as important in a technical document as correct spelling, good grammar, and well supported claims.
7.1 What’s Wrong with My Math?
Engineers take pride in their mathematical abilities. Many of us chose engineering because we were told at an early age that people who are good at math become engineers. But are we really as good as we think?
As engineers we use mathematical tools to develop our ideas and attain our design goals. It shouldn’t be necessary to mention the importance of doing math correctly — mathematical blunders can lead to dramatic and disastrous results. In 1907 the Quebec railway bridge collapsed because engineers incorrectly calculated the expected ...
