Duality for the Non-Specialist

TL;DR

This paper provides an accessible introduction to the concept of duality in physics, focusing on p-forms and sigma-models, with detailed examples aimed at non-specialist readers like graduate students.

Contribution

It offers a pedagogical, example-driven overview of duality concepts tailored for non-specialists, filling a gap in accessible educational resources.

Findings

Clear explanations of duality in p-forms and sigma-models

Worked examples illustrating duality principles

Educational approach suitable for graduate students

Abstract

This is the written version of a series of lectures reviewing the basics of duality as applied to p-forms and sigma-models. The ideas are introduced by way of worked examples, often quite detailed. Our approach is very pedestrian and the presentation is aimed at non-specialists, such as e.g. graduate students.