
An Introduction to String Diagrams for Computer Scientists
Cambridge University Press
Published on 29. May 2025
Book
Hardback
118 pages
978-1-009-62570-8 (ISBN)
Description
String diagrams are a powerful graphical language used to represent computational phenomena across diverse scientific fields, including computer science, physics, linguistics, amongst others. The appeal of string diagrams lies in their multi-faceted nature: they offer a simple, visual representation of complex scientific ideas, while also allowing rigorous mathematical treatment. Originating in category theory, string diagrams have since evolved into a versatile formalism, extending well beyond their abstract algebraic roots, and offering alternative entry points to their study. This text provides an accessible introduction to string diagrams from the perspective of computer science. Rather than starting from categorical concepts, the authors draw on intuitions from formal language theory, treating string diagrams as a syntax with its own semantics. They survey the basic theory, outline fundamental principles, and highlight modern applications of string diagrams in different fields. This title is also available as open access on Cambridge Core.
More details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Illustrations
Worked examples or Exercises
Dimensions
Height: 235 mm
Width: 157 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight
336 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-009-62570-8 (9781009625708)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Robin Piedeleu | Fabio Zanasi
An Introduction to String Diagrams for Computer Scientists
Book
05/2025
Cambridge University Press
€36.10
Shipment within 15-20 days
Persons
Content
1. The Case for String Diagrams; 2. String Diagrams as Syntax; 3. String Diagrams as Graphs; 4. Categories of String Diagrams; 5. Semantics; 6. Other Trends in String Diagram Theory; 7. String Diagrams in Science: Some Applications; References.