How to master mathematics?

Question

Mathematics

Hello, friends!
I'll start with the backstory. I don't know much about mathematics because I was stupidly ignorant about this subject. I thought it would never come in handy, and indeed, I began to study a little from the 7th grade. But the teachers said that there are abilities, and not entirely bad :) How I graduated from the university - I don’t understand myself.
So, please, give parting words, a list of books to read and study. Purpose: to master the textbook "Construction and Analysis of Algorithms" by Cormen (available in paper form) and, possibly, Knuth.
Why am I interested in this topic? I understand that the sooner I start, the better, and yet, over time, I want to get into the field of AI and machine learning. Mathematics is needed, it’s a pity that I didn’t teach :(

Answer 1

You can start with Courant and Robbins' What is Mathematics, which is enough for a general understanding of Cormen. If you want to move further towards ML, then look towards the ShAD, its preparation program for admission can be considered as a short list of topics required in this area.