The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Discrete Math for Computer Science - Logic & Set Theory

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Discrete Math for Computer Science - Logic & Set Theory

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Apply counting techniques to compute possibilities in algorithms and data structures.

  • Apply rules of inference and proof techniques to verify correctness of statements.

  • Use sets, relations, and functions to represent and analyse computational structures.

Details to know

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Recently updated!

February 2026

Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Discrete Mathematical Tools for Computer Science Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 5 modules in this course

This module introduces the foundations of discrete math through logic and set theory. Students learn to reason rigorously with statements, solve classic puzzles like knights and knaves, and manipulate collections of objects using set operations and Venn diagrams. It builds essential reasoning skills for consistent rule design, data modeling, and correct algorithm foundations in computer science.

What's included

1 video2 readings

Propositional logic studies logical statements that are either true or false and how they can be combined using logical connectives. This topic introduces propositions, truth values, compound statements, truth tables, and logical equivalences, forming the basis for precise reasoning, digital circuits, and formal proofs.

What's included

20 videos1 reading1 assignment

Predicate logic extends propositional logic by incorporating variables and quantifiers to express statements about collections of objects. It enables more expressive reasoning using predicates, universal and existential quantifiers, restricted domains, and nested quantifiers, allowing formal modeling of real-world and mathematical statements.

What's included

23 videos1 reading1 assignment

This topic focuses on formal reasoning through valid arguments and proofs. It introduces rules of inference for propositional and predicate logic and covers fundamental proof techniques such as direct proof, proof by contraposition, and proof by contradiction, which are essential for verifying mathematical and computational claims.

What's included

28 videos1 reading1 assignment

This topic introduces sets as collections of objects and functions as mappings between sets. It covers set notation, subsets, power sets, Cartesian products, cardinality, and basic properties of functions, providing essential tools for modeling data structures, relations, and mathematical abstractions in computer science.

What's included

28 videos1 reading1 assignment

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Instructor

Kenneth Wai-Ting Leung
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
8 Courses 222,936 learners

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