Math 170: Information from the Instructor

Introduction

In this course, we will learn some of the most basic concepts and methods in linear programming and optimization. Linear programming, which concerns optimizing a linear objective function subject to linear constraints, is a magic product of modern mathematics. Our main focus in this course is to develop the basic theory and the simplex algorithm for linear program. Along the way, we will in addition discuss the Kuhn-Tucker conditions and Lagrangian multipliers and convex analysis. Time permitting, we will also discuss quaratic programming.

This information document covers the following subjects: how to contact the staff, prerequisites, textbooks, course work and grading, the Math 98 class for matlab, late penalties.

If you have a general question about something that is NOT covered here, or if you wish to talk with me, the easiest way is to come during office hours. Otherwise, please make an appointment by sending me email.

Staff

Instructor Prof. Ming Gu
Office: Evans 861
Office Hours: WF 2:00-3:00PM, or by appointment.
Phone: 642-3145
Email: mgu@math

Prerequisites

The prerequisites are Math 53 and 54 or equivalent. If you have doubts about them, please come talk with the instructor.

Textbooks

Our textbook is

Math 98

Matlab is going to be the programming language for this class. Good matlab programming skills can go a long way to earn you a descent grade in this class. The Math Department offers a 1-credit class Math 98 this semester to help those who want to learn or enhance their matlab skills. This class lasts for about 5-6 weeks. If you would like to enroll or to know more about this class, please contact Boris Ettinger at ettinger@math.berkeley.edu or visit /~ettinger/math98.html .

Course Work and Grading

There are a total of 100 points you can earn toward your final grade in the course. There will be one midterm exam and one term project, each worth 20 points. The final exam is worth 30 points. In addition to exams, there will be 12 weekly homeworks, the best 10 of which will earn you 3 points each. Homeworks will be partially graded by our class readers every week. The exams will be cumulative, There will be no make-up exams.

Here are the exam dates:

Homeworks will involve written assignments to be done individually, although group discussion is allowed. Midterm exam will be discussed in class.

Your final letter grade will be determined based on your personal as well as class performance. Grades of Incomplete will be granted only for dire medical or personal emergencies that cause you to miss the final, and only if your work up to that point has been satisfactory.

To obtain an early report of your grade, leave a stamped, self-addressed postcard with your final or in my mail box.

Lateness

We will give no credit for written homework turned in after the due date and there will be no make up exams. The only exception to this policy is medical or personal emergencies.