Optimization
Optimization is a foundational topic in mathematics, underpinning nearly all of our modern industrial and technological world. Assuming only basic knowledge of linear algebra and calculus, this book provides a rapid, yet thorough, overview of applied mathematical optimization for advanced undergraduates, beginning graduate students, or practitioners in science and engineering. The text opens with an “Optimization Bootcamp”, introducing methods at a beginning level, before progressing to deep-dives into advanced topics and research-ready methods. The focus throughout is on modern applications of machine learning, inverse problems, and control. Rich pedagogy includes Python code with simple working examples and advanced case studies. Every section is accompanied by YouTube lectures to encourage interaction with the material. Using intuitive explanations, this book makes the material as simple and interesting as possible, while still having the depth, breadth and precision required to empower use in research and real-world applications.
- Features beautiful illustrations and diagrams, along with simple and intuitive explanations and extensive examples with code in Python
- Contains hundreds of carefully designed homework exercises, ranging from simple questions to in-depth projects
- Accompanied by high-quality videos on YouTube for all sections and full code supplements on GitHub, allowing students and instructors to follow the material in an online lecture format
Reviews & endorsements
'Steve Brunton explores optimization with clarity and ambition. Throughout, the book maintains an excellent balance between mathematical insight and practical implementation, with well-chosen examples and Python code that illuminate what is happening beneath the algorithmic surface. This is an accessible text for readers encountering the material for the first time and a valuable reference for researchers wanting to study one of the topics presented in greater depth.' Richard Murray, Caltech
'I would strongly recommend Steve Brunton's Optimization Bootcamp to any beginning student of Applied Math, Engineering, or Machine Learning. The book covers many of the most commonly used optimization methods, with practical examples and problems in different fields, from fitting models to data, to designing mechanical structures. Its integrated Python examples send a clear message to the student: This material is meant to be used.' Stephen Boyd, Stanford University
Product details
- Published: June 2026
- Format: Adobe eBook Reader
- ISBN: 9781009755849
- Length: 0 pages
- Availability: Not yet published - available from June 2026
Table of Contents
- Preface
- Acknowledgments
- 1. Optimization bootcamp
- 2. Gradient based optimization
- 3. Linear programming
- 4. Least-squares regression
- 5. Nonsmooth and global optimization
- 6. Constraints and duality
- 7. Bayesian modeling and estimation
- 8. Optimization for inverse problems
- 9. Optimization for control
- 10. Optimization for machine learning
- Glossary
- Bibliography.
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