Constructing Proofs

Abstract

One of the most fundamental of all mathematical tasks is to establish that a given statement is in fact a true statement. We do this by means of a proof, a correct logical argument which demonstrates the truth of the statement as long as the initial assumptions were true. Indeed, we saw in Chapter 6 how important it is that truth in mathematics is established on a secure basis. But how often have you tried to construct a proof of some result and found yourself hopelessly lost?