  Tensor network (TN), a young mathematical tool of high vitality and great
potential, has been undergoing extremely rapid developments in the last two
decades, gaining tremendous success in condensed matter physics, atomic
physics, quantum information science, statistical physics, and so on. In this
lecture notes, we focus on the contraction algorithms of TN as well as some of
the applications to the simulations of quantum many-body systems. Starting from
basic concepts and definitions, we first explain the relations between TN and
physical problems, including the TN representations of classical partition
functions, quantum many-body states (by matrix product state, tree TN, and
projected entangled pair state), time evolution simulations, etc. These
problems, which are challenging to solve, can be transformed to TN contraction
problems. We present then several paradigm algorithms based on the ideas of the
numerical renormalization group and/or boundary states, including density
matrix renormalization group, time-evolving block decimation,
coarse-graining/corner tensor renormalization group, and several distinguished
variational algorithms. Finally, we revisit the TN approaches from the
perspective of multi-linear algebra (also known as tensor algebra or tensor
decompositions) and quantum simulation. Despite the apparent differences in the
ideas and strategies of different TN algorithms, we aim at revealing the
underlying relations and resemblances in order to present a systematic picture
to understand the TN contraction approaches.
