We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Introduction to Logic

This course is an introduction to Logic from a computational perspective. It shows how to encode information in the form of logical sentences; it shows how to reason with information in this form; and it provides an overview of logic technology and its applications - in mathematics, science, engineering, business, law, and so forth.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

Two deals to help you save

Save money when you learn. Here are two deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.

All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.

Valid until July 14

Coursera Plus Annual

Work toward what's next for your career with access to 10,000+ programs. Discover emerging skills and save.

Valid until August 30

Google AI App Builder

Learn how to use Gemini API and API Studio with a three-course series from Google DeepMind

What's inside

Syllabus

Unit 1 - Introduction

Unit 2 - Propositional Logic

Unit 3 - Relational Logic

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Introduces foundations in Logic, which is foundational in engineering

Uses a computational approach to logic, which is a leading method

Covers a comprehensive range of topics in logic

Taught by Michael Genesereth, who is a known expert in computational logic

Part of a series of courses, indicating a comprehensive approach

This course requires extensive background knowledge

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Rigorous computational logic introduction

According to learners, this course is largely positive, providing a strong foundation in logic with a valuable computational perspective. The clear lectures, especially in the foundational units, are appreciated for explaining complex topics. However, reviewers consistently highlight the high difficulty of the material and the challenging assignments, particularly in the later units, noting they are demanding but valuable for learning. Some students felt the course might be better suited for those with prior analytical backgrounds, finding it less accessible as a true introduction for everyone. The dense readings are also noted as necessary but difficult.

Lectures are clear but pacing can be fast.

"The lectures were clear and concise"

"The instructor explained complex topics in an easy-to-understand way."

"The video lectures were high quality"

"The lectures were okay, but the pacing felt fast, especially in the later parts."

"the way it was presented sometimes felt overly dense."

Assignments are demanding but valuable practice.

"the assignments were challenging but fair"

"The assignments were very difficult for me, and I struggled to keep up."

"The assignments were key to understanding the material."

"The assignments were tough, definitely needed to re-watch lectures."

"The assignments really push you to think."

Provides a solid base in logic concepts.

"the content provided a fantastic foundation in logic."

"A solid introduction. Covers the basics well, especially propositional logic."

"Perfect introduction to formal logic. The structure of the course builds knowledge logically"

"Solid fundamentals taught here."

"Good for building a strong theoretical base."

Readings are essential but found difficult.

"the exercises could be quite difficult without spending a lot of time with the readings."

"The readings were essential, but also heavy."

"The readings are dense but necessary."

Course is challenging; requires dedication.

"Found this course quite challenging."

"Might be better suited for someone with a stronger math or CS background."

"Felt lost quite often. Didn't seem like a good 'introduction' to me. Very difficult for someone new to the topic."

"Requires dedication, but worth the effort."

"Requires significant time commitment."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Logic with these activities:

Review Basic Math Concepts

Show steps

Refreshing your knowledge of basic math concepts will help you understand the mathematical foundations of logic.

Browse courses on Arithmetic

Show steps

Review the concepts of sets, functions, and relations.
Practice solving simple math problems.

Explore Logic Tutors and Videos

Show steps

Seeking additional resources can help you reinforce your understanding of the course material and address any areas where you need further clarification.

Show steps

Identify areas where you need additional support.
Search for online tutorials or videos on those topics.
Follow the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts.

Organize Course Notes and Materials

Show steps

Keeping your notes and materials organized will make it easier to review and recall the course material.

Browse courses on Note taking

Show steps

Review your notes from each class.
Summarize the key points and concepts.
Create flashcards or use other methods to reinforce your understanding.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Join a Logic Study Group

Show steps

Participating in a study group will provide you with opportunities to discuss the course material, ask questions, and learn from your peers.

Browse courses on Collaboration

Show steps

Find or create a study group with other students in the course.
Meet regularly to discuss the course material and work on problems together.
Share your knowledge and insights with your group members.

Practice Propositional Logic Problems

Show steps

Solving problems will reinforce your understanding of propositional logic and improve your logical reasoning skills.

Browse courses on Propositional Logic

Show steps

Review the course materials on propositional logic.
Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
Attempt to solve the problems and check your answers.

Create a Logic Puzzle

Show steps

Creating a logic puzzle will challenge you to think creatively and apply your understanding of logic.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

Show steps

Choose a topic for your puzzle.
Design the puzzle, including the rules and clues.
Test your puzzle on others and revise it based on their feedback.

Develop a Logic-Based Application

Show steps

Building a logic-based application will allow you to apply your understanding of logic in a practical setting and demonstrate your programming skills.

Show steps

Identify a problem or task that can be solved using logic.
Design and implement a logic-based solution.
Test and debug your application.
Document your application and share it with others.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Logic will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and Information Research Scientists design, develop, and evaluate computer and information systems. They may also develop theories and principles that contribute to the design and application of computer systems. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer and Information Research Scientist

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of database systems. They may also work with users to develop and implement database applications. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They may also work with users to develop and implement software applications. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design, develop, and implement computer systems. They may also work with users to develop and implement computer systems. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer systems and networks. They may also work with users to develop and implement security measures. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write, test, and maintain computer programs. They may also work with users to develop and implement computer programs. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Web Developer

Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites. They may also work with users to develop and implement websites. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make informed decisions. They may also work with users to develop and implement data analysis solutions. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. They may also work with users to develop and implement business solutions. A background in Logic would be very helpful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts analyze financial data to help organizations make informed investment decisions. They may also work with users to develop and implement financial analysis solutions. A background in Logic may be useful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Market Research Analyst

Market Research Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret market data to help organizations make informed marketing decisions. They may also work with users to develop and implement market research solutions. A background in Logic may be useful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts develop and apply mathematical and analytical techniques to solve complex business problems. They may also work with users to develop and implement operations research solutions. A background in Logic may be useful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret statistical data to help organizations make informed decisions. They may also work with users to develop and implement statistical solutions. A background in Logic may be useful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Actuary

Actuaries analyze financial data to help organizations manage risk. They may also work with users to develop and implement actuarial solutions. A background in Logic may be useful for building a solid foundation for this position, particularly the parts of the course that cover probability and statistics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Economist

Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They may also work with users to develop and implement economic solutions. A background in Logic may be useful for building a solid foundation for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Reading list

We've selected 17 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Logic.

Introduction to Logic

Save

This textbook commonly used at academic institutions to teach logic. standard reference for symbolic logic. If you want to dig deeper into the subject matter of this course, this valuable resource.

Introduction to Logic

Two deals to help you save

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Rigorous computational logic introduction

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses