Best Linear Algebra Workbook: 5 Compared for Students

Finding the best linear algebra workbook depends on how you study: some learners want thousands of solved problems to drill, while others need a clear textbook that builds from the basics. We compared five linear algebra books by page count, problem count, edition and what each description says, so you can pick the one that matches your course and your study style.

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The picks

#	Product	Shelf Score	Buy
1	3000 Problems by Lipschutz	9.8/10	Buy on Amazon
2	Schaum's Outline by Lipschutz	9.8/10	Buy on Amazon
3	Linear Algebra by Shilov	9.7/10	Buy on Amazon
4	Linear Algebra For Dummies	9.7/10	Buy on Amazon
5	QuickStudy Linear Algebra	9.3/10	Buy on Amazon

1

3000 Problems by Lipschutz

Seymour Lipschutz·9.8/10 Shelf Score

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The Shelf Score runs from 9.2 to 9.8 and weighs fit for the reader or goal (35 points), contents and edition (25), value (25) and listed reading age or level (10, where the listing gives one), using only what the book listing states. How we pick ›

A 750-page solved-problem guide with 3000 fully worked linear algebra problems.

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Pros

• 3000 solved problems, the most here
• Complete solutions for every problem
• Compatible with any classroom text

Cons

• 1989 first edition is an older printing
• No reading age or level stated
• Problem-drill format, less theory explanation

2

Schaum's Outline by Lipschutz

Seymour LIPSCHUTZ·9.8/10 Shelf Score

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The Shelf Score runs from 9.2 to 9.8 and weighs fit for the reader or goal (35 points), contents and edition (25), value (25) and listed reading age or level (10, where the listing gives one), using only what the book listing states. How we pick ›

The 6th edition Schaum's Outline with over 600 solved problems and 25 videos, 436 pages.

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Pros

• Current 6th edition matches latest curriculum
• 25 problem-solving videos included
• Over 600 problems with step-by-step solutions

Cons

• No reading age or level stated
• Fewer problems than the 3000-problem guide
• Outline format, not a full textbook

3

Linear Algebra by Shilov

Georgi E. Shilov·9.7/10 Shelf Score

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The Shelf Score runs from 9.2 to 9.8 and weighs fit for the reader or goal (35 points), contents and edition (25), value (25) and listed reading age or level (10, where the listing gives one), using only what the book listing states. How we pick ›

A 400-page Dover linear algebra text covering determinants to Euclidean spaces, with problems.

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Pros

• Covers elementary to advanced topics
• Problems with hints and answers included
• Dover edition, 400 pages

Cons

• 1977 revised edition is an older printing
• No reading age or level stated
• Dense text, less hand-holding than Dummies

4

Linear Algebra For Dummies

Mary Jane Sterling·9.7/10 Shelf Score

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The Shelf Score runs from 9.2 to 9.8 and weighs fit for the reader or goal (35 points), contents and edition (25), value (25) and listed reading age or level (10, where the listing gives one), using only what the book listing states. How we pick ›

A 384-page beginner-friendly guide mapping to a typical college linear algebra course.

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Pros

• Explains the why, not just the how
• Maps to a typical college course
• Practical real-world applications

Cons

• 2009 first edition is an older printing
• No reading age or level stated
• Less rigorous than a full textbook

5

QuickStudy Linear Algebra

S B Kizlik·9.3/10 Shelf Score

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The Shelf Score runs from 9.2 to 9.8 and weighs fit for the reader or goal (35 points), contents and edition (25), value (25) and listed reading age or level (10, where the listing gives one), using only what the book listing states. How we pick ›

A 6-page laminated quick reference guide for linear algebra formulas and tables.

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Pros

• Laminated, survives backpacks and desks
• Complete quick reference in 6 pages
• Good for exam review

Cons

• Only 6 pages, not a workbook
• No practice problems with solutions
• No reading age or level stated

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More picks to compare

• Practice Makes Perfect Linear Algebra500 exercises with answers for linear algebra practice.Check on Amazon
• Mark Twain Statistics WorkbookStatistics and probability for grades 5 to 12, 80 pages.Check on Amazon

Compare the picks

Book details as published on each listing, collected 23 October 2026.

How we scored them

The Shelf Score weighs fit for the reader, contents and edition, value, and the listed reading age or level where one is given. None of these five list a reading age or grade level, which is normal for college texts. How we pick explains the weights.

Scores run from 9.2 to 9.8: each book’s point total is placed on that range, so more points always means a higher score. Reading age or level counts on a list where at least one listing gives one, and a book whose listing gives none then scores zero on it. Where no listing gives one, the score is taken over the other 85 points. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not scored.

How to choose the best linear algebra workbook

Drill problems or learn the theory

Schaum’s 3000 Solved Problems gives you the most practice with 3000 fully worked solutions across 750 pages. If you need the concepts explained first, Shilov’s Linear Algebra or Linear Algebra For Dummies build from matrices up to eigenvalues. Match the book to whether your course already covers the theory.

Check the edition

Newer editions match current curricula: the Schaum’s Outline 6th edition from 2017 includes 25 problem-solving videos. Older editions like the 1989 Schaum’s 3000 or the 1977 Shilov still cover the core topics, but confirm the edition against your syllabus. For more math practice, see math workbooks.

Consider the format

Full workbooks suit a semester of study, while the 6-page QuickStudy laminated guide is a desk reference for formulas. If you want a portable summary for exams, the laminated format survives backpacks. Choose the depth that fits your timeline.

Before you buy

• Confirm the edition on the listing, since linear algebra texts are reprinted often.
• Check whether solutions or an answer key are included, or sold separately.
• Match the book’s level to your course: introductory texts differ from graduate-level ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which linear algebra workbook has the most problems?

Schaum’s 3,000 Solved Problems lists 3000 solved problems with complete solutions, the most here. The Schaum’s Outline 6th edition lists over 600 problems plus 25 videos.

Are the answers included?

The Schaum’s books state complete solutions are included. The Shilov text lists problems with hints and answers. Check the listing for the others.

Is there a quick reference for linear algebra?

The QuickStudy laminated guide condenses linear algebra to 6 pages of tables and lists. It suits review, not learning from scratch.

Still deciding? Our top pick3000 Problems by Lipschutz

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