Book Description
One of the most commonly asked questions in a mathematics classroom is, "Will I ever use this stuff in real life?" Some teachers can give a good, convincing answer; others hem and haw and stare at the floor. The real response to the question should be, "Yes, you will, because algebra gives you power" – the power to help your children with their math homework, the power to manage your finances, the power to be successful in your career (especially if you have to manage the company budget). The list goes on.

Algebra is a system of mathematical symbols and rules that are universally understood, no matter what the spoken language. Algebra provides a clear, methodical process that can be followed from beginning to end to solve complex problems. There's no doubt that algebra can be easy to some while extremely challenging to others. For those of you who are challenged by working with numbers, Algebra For Dummies can provide the help you need.

This easy-to-understand reference not only explains algebra in terms you can understand, but it also gives you the necessary tools to solve complex problems. But rest assured, this book is not about memorizing a bunch of meaningless steps; you find out the whys behind algebra to increase your understanding of how algebra works.

In Algebra For Dummies, you'll discover the following topics and more:

• All about numbers – rational and irrational, variables, and positive and negative
• Figuring out fractions and decimals
• Explaining exponents and radicals
• Solving linear and quadratic equations
• Understanding formulas and solving story problems
• Having fun with graphs
• Top Ten lists on common algebraic errors, factoring tips, and divisibility rules.

No matter if you're 16 years old or 60 years old; no matter if you're learning algebra for the first time or need a quick refresher course; no matter if you're cramming for an algebra test, helping your kid with his or her homework, or coming up with next year's company budget, Algebra For Dummies can give you the tools you need to succeed. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

Info on Brahmagupta
Brahmagupta was the first to solve equations using general methods.Greek Diophantus solved equations using special ad hoc methods. Hence Brahmagupta was the first real algebraist.Edward Sachau said "It was Brahmagupta who taught Arabs mathematics".

The author says that Brahmagupta had an interesting take on zero.What does that mean?Brahmagupta incorporated zero to the Hindu number system and started computing with it.Brahmagupta was the first to write down the modern multiplication based on Hindu Arabic numbers that permeates all human activities from algebra, rocket science, banking, commerce to illicit deals in street corners.Here it is...The book would have been more complete if the author had given that information.

"The multiplicand is repeated like a string for cattle, as often as there are integrant portions in the multiplier and is severelly multiplied by them and the products are added together.It is multiplication.Or the multiplicand is repeated as many times as there are component parts in the multiplier".
Brahmagupta
Translated to English by H.T Colebrook, 1,817 AD

Brahmagupta then gives an example.
235 x 288

2 3 52 4 7 0
2 3 5 8 1 8 8 0
2 3 58 1 8 8 0

6 7 6 8 0

Thank God for this
I actually passed Algebra, finally. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

My teacher and my textbook were NO HELP---This was so understandable.

ok book, for a smart dumby
well, the book was pretty good actually. though you kinda have to be a smart dumby to understand the book completely. sometimes, the problems aren't that clear. but the book is pretty fun to read, since it has some fun facts, and it also teaches you some things that pop up everyday in algebra.

um,Dont think so
THE LAYOUT OF THIS BOOK WAS MORE COMPLICATED THAN ADVANCED ALGEBRA ITSELF.IT IS THE WORST PURCHASE I HAVE EVER MADE.IT EXPLAINS ALL DIFFERNT ASPECTS OF ALGEBRA YES BUT IT DOES NOT ACCTUALLY EXPLAIN HOW TO COMPLETE A SUM.METHODS ETC.
USELESS...

Helping to Overcome the Fear of Algebra
ALGEBRA FOR DUMMIES was purchased, along with ALGEBRA WORKBOOK FOR DUMMIES, for a close friend that has gone back to school at a "mature" age. Together they haven't exactly made her a raving algebraic enthusiast but they put forth the concepts in a manner that is logical and easier to understand. I don't think she'll score a 4 for this class but there's no doubt that she'll achieve a passing grade! ... Read more

Book Description
Problem topics can include improper numbers, grouping symbols, using proportions, rationalizing fractions, multiplying and factoring expressions, solving linear and quadratic equations, working with inequalities, and using formulas in story problems. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Algebra for Dummies & Workbook for same
I recently ordered the Algebra for Dummies, as well as the workbook to go with it, for a friend who is trying to obtain a position with a company who is looking for someone with math skills in algebra.

He is working out of state, so I had the books shipped to his address. Upon asking him if he thought these books would help him, he said they definitely would. His comment was that they were easy to understand, and although it has been 20+ years since he was in school, he thought he had a good chance at getting the job.

Anything that I have ever ordered from Amazon has always come quickly, been the correct item, and I will certainly keep ordering things from them.

good review and fun
About 180 pages into it and I'm actually having fun!
The example problems are great but the solutions at the end of the chapter are sometimes a bit confusing (but they clear themselves up if you chew the problem a little and remember what you're supposed to be learning in that given chapter).
I've only found one typo in an answer so far (signs reversed).

Learning a few things I never heard of before for example Pascal's Triangle.

Skip around and focus on the weak areas.I'd buy it again.

Bought it for a review before returning to college after a seven year break from school (if you can really call the military a break).

Purchase to study for COMPASS test
The workbook has been a big help!!!It's easy to following and progresses smoothly.I would recommend it to anyone looking to brush up on their algebra skills.

Suitable for review or as a supplement, not as a primary learning resource
The emphasis is on workbook, there is only the bare minimum of explanation of the concepts before you move on to the example problems and then the problems to be worked. In general the explanatory material is a few paragraphs in length. The details of how to carry out the specific operations are given in the two or three worked problems. An occasional "outlier" is also thrown in here. For example, on page 84, there is the question:

What's the state bird of Alaska?

The problems are standard for the subject matter and the solutions are presented in a step-by-step manner. The topics covered are:

*) Manipulating signed numbers
*) The manipulation laws of algebra
*) Manipulating fractions
*) Manipulating exponents
*) Manipulating radicals
*) Manipulating algebraic expressions
*) Manipulating polynomials
*) Multiplying and factoring trinomials
*) Solving linear equations
*) Solving quadratic equations
*) Solving radical equations
*) Solving inequalities
*) Working with basic geometric shapes
*) Geometric story problems
*) Linear story problems
*) Mixture story problems
*) Graphing

If you have a good grasp of algebra and need a quick review, then this book is ideal. However, if you do not know algebra, then this book is at best a supplement to your studies.

Awesome book!
This is a great book if you're needing help in algebra.Explanations and examples are well planned so that they make sense and you can get a good grasp on what is being presented. ... Read more

Book Description
Practical Algebra If you studied algebra years ago and now need a refresher course in order to use algebraic principles on the job, or if you're a student who needs an introduction to the subject, here's the perfect book for you. Practical Algebra is an easy and fun-to-use workout program that quickly puts you in command of all the basic concepts and tools of algebra. With the aid of practical, real-life examples and applications, you'll learn:

• The basic approach and application of algebra to problem solving
• The number system (in a much broader way than you have known it from arithmetic)
• Monomials and polynomials; factoring algebraic expressions; how to handle algebraic fractions; exponents, roots, and radicals; linear and fractional equations
• Functions and graphs; quadratic equations; inequalities; ratio, proportion, and variation; how to solve word problems, and more

Customer Reviews (54)

Excellent, excellent, excellent!
This is the absolute best book I've ever read on Algebra.My teachers made the subject so confusing in High School, but two months with this book and I became an Algebra whiz!

If you need to learn Algebra, BUY THIS BOOK.

Amazing!
I recently returned to school intending to major in Forensic Science.I graduated from high school in 1992 and only had pre-algebra.When I took the placement exam it put me in Algebra I.I suppose that is pretty good since it meant that I hadn't forgotten the stuff I learned in high school, but it meant I would have to spend at least an extra year just getting caught up on math before I could even get into the science classes I needed for my desired major.I purchased several algebra books that weren't helping at all, then I found this one.I love this book.I spent 5 days working through the book from cover to cover.I also used a software program called "College Algebra Solved!" for the areas where I needed a little more help (like simplifying radicals).After spending those five days with the book and software I retook the placement exam and placed into precalulus (my placement score went from 34 to 85.That's a 51 point increase!).So, yes, you can teach yourself algebra with this book.Everything is explained well and there are lots of practice problems and self-tests.

If you are looking to refresh or even teach yourself from scratch, this is the book.

Great introductory book for self-taught people
Great introductory book for people who want to learn the basics of algebra, by themselves.

A Delight!
If Math gives you pleasure, you'll love this book. Over the years I've either forgotten some of the basics of algebra, or can't recall how they're derived. Since algebra is the foundation of so much in the great field of mathematics, this book is invaluable. The authors not only know their subject perfectly, they also know how to teach it through the written word. The text is not long-winded, and examples are given in the form of frequent small challenges to the reader to work problems for her or himself. The problems selected have a way of bringing enlightenment. For example, if you arrive at a solution other than the one given later in the text, your mistake will probably reveal to you the logic you should have used. These problems, then are a continuing form of instruction.
This is no novel, or light reading. It's absolutely wonderful. I can't recommend it highly enough. And what a bargain!

A Lifesaver
I bought this for my son who needed extensive review before retaking his college math placement test.He tried using his old textbook but it wasn't helping.I read all the great reviews for this so I thought it was worth a try.My son told me this book really helped because not only did it show the steps to solve various problems but it also told him what NOT to do.These were the common mistakes he was making.He reviewed using this and did the practice problems for approximately 3 weeks and was able to increase his previous test score by 26 points, more than enough to pass.What a relief (for both of us).We both would highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description
Besides being an important area of math for everyday use, algebra is a passport to studying subjects like calculus, trigonometry, number theory, and geometry, just to name a few. To understand algebra is to possess the power to grow your skills and knowledge so you can ace your courses and possibly pursue further study in math.

Algebra II For Dummies is the fun and easy way to get a handle on this subject and solve even the trickiest algebra problems. This friendly guide shows you how to get up to speed on exponential functions, laws of logarithms, conic sections, matrices, and other advanced algebra concepts. In no time you’ll have the tools you need to:

• Interpret quadratic functions
• Find the roots of a polynomial
• Reason with rational functions
• Expose exponential and logarithmic functions
• Cut up conic sections
• Solve linear and non linear systems of equations
• Equate inequalities
• Simplifyy complex numbers
• Make moves with matrices
• Sort out sequences and sets

This straightforward guide offers plenty of multiplication tricks that only math teachers know. It also profiles special types of numbers, making it easy for you to categorize them and solve any problems without breaking a sweat. When it comes to understanding and working out algebraic equations, Algebra II For Dummies is all you need to succeed! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Learning advanced algebra
This book assumes a level of knowledge about Algebra and goes from there.It includes the usual "Dummies" cartoons and funny antics so it is enjoying to read for a "dreaded" subject.Not sure if it has helped me yet though.

Great book if you struggle with Algebra like me
The book is very detailed and gives anchor text to help understand what the steps are all about

This book is great
I am using the book to tutor a couple of kids and it is working out great. It gives me an easy way to help them learn these concepts. I recommend it for any one who needs to review their skills or is having trouble learning these concepts.

Great Book! if......
This is a GREAT book for studying and reviewing algebra 2, but if you have not taken algebra, or if you took algebra and couldnt grasp most topics without going back to your textbooks to remember something, then you may want to get algebra for dummies to review, this book begins with a slight amount of review from algebra 1, but it will definetly not each you all of algebra 1 topics. I bought this book to study algebra 2 during the summer so I wont have to worry so much next year and ive learned alot from this book, great for dummies book I recomend it completely. ... Read more

Book Description
From radical problems to rational functions -- solve equations with ease


Do you have a grasp of Algebra II terms and concepts, but can't seem to work your way through problems? No fear -- this hands-on guide focuses on helping you solve the many types of Algebra II problems in an easy, step-by-step manner. With just enough refresher explanations before each set of problems, you'll sharpen your skills and improve your performance. You'll see how to work with linear and quadratic equations, polynomials, inequalities, graphs, sequences, sets, and more!

100s of Problems!
* Step-by-step answer sets clearly identify where you went wrong (or right) with a problem
* Get the inside scoop on complex numbers and matrices
* Know where to begin and how to solve the most common equations
* Use algebra in practical applications with confidence ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Found Errors
I am just finishing Chapter 5 and already I have found 4 mistakes in basic math and algebra.These errors include mistakes in addition, failing to include a term of an equation in the answer, failure to change signs properly.I do not know if these errors were made by the author or the publishing company.Either way I feel more attention should have paid to quality control. This book is supposed to help us understand Algebra, but instead it causes confusion with all these errors.

Excellent service and delivery
I ordered this book online andin no time did I have it in the mail. I dont complain.Totally good service. ... Read more

Book Description

Linear algebra is relatively easy for students during the early stages of the course, when the material is presented in a familiar, concrete setting. But when abstract concepts are introduced, students often hit a brick wall. Instructors seem to agree that certain concepts (such as linear independence, spanning, subspace, vector space, and linear transformations), are not easily understood, and require time to assimilate. Since they are fundamental to the study of linear algebra, students' understanding of these concepts is vital to their mastery of the subject. Lay introduces these concepts early in a familiar, concrete Rn setting, develops them gradually, and returns to them again and again throughout the text so that when discussed in the abstract, these concepts are more accessible.

Customer Reviews (9)

Pretty bad
This book starts out well, but eventually the chapters are too short and don't go far enough in depth on the more advanced topics.This book isn't ideal for any sort of self-study, as it does not contain enough information to thoroughly educate the reader on many of the subjects without some supplementary instruction.Also does not go into any detail on using Mat Lab or any other form of programming to solve linear algebra, which is somewhat essential nowadays.Wouldn't recommend.

An outstanding introduction to Linear Algebra
This book provides a good companion for an introductory course in Linear Algebra.Mr. Lay's style is very clear, readable, and each concept logically builds on the last.My only concern is that, like another reviewer said there is the occasional gap between the exercises and the examples presented, which may require the assistance of the instructor.4/5 Stars

A very good introduction to linear algebra
The highest quality of a book is the ability to teach yourself from it.Lay's book is very self-teachable because it is written in a non-pretentious, explanatory way, making sure you get the big picture while making sure you can do the little details.It reminds me of Griffiths books in physics.

It is a little proof light, so I can respect that a mathematician who is into analysis might find this book too easy.Problems aren't too hard but aren't too easy for the more conceptual questions.

And I appreciate that the problems are meant to test your ability to understand the material, not do mindless calculations that I know anyone can do.For example, some matrices will just start off already diagonalized for you in later chapters.

This is written from the perspective of a physicist.I thus say to my fellow scientists that this is a great book to gain a good understanding of the linear algebra.If you are an experimentalist who frankly wants to learn only what he needs to in order to get by, THEN THIS BOOK ISN'T FOR YOU.This book develops from scratch everything you need to know for undergraduate physics.Go read a Differential Equations book and learn as you go for the linear algebra.If you're a theorist, this is for you.

Good for the basics
I bought this book in June for a Linear Algebra course I will be starting in the fall. I've been looking through it and reading bits and pieces and from what I see I certainly like this guy's style. I've had completely unusable math books before but this is one of the few that I can use without the assistance of a teacher to at least begin to understand the basic concepts involved. Since I'll be taking the course as a high school student and not asa college student this book seems like it will do just fine to introduce concepts, and, from what I hear, the teacher who is taking over this course in the fall is excellent at explaining stuff so students understand it. Maybe after taking the course I'll change my mind, but for now Linear Algebra and Its Applications is one of the better math books I've ever used.

High Quality Linear Algebra Text!
This book is much better than what I feel some reviewers are giving it credit for. Perhaps they have had better exposure than I have to other materials for comparison, but I cannot say for sure.

What I can say is that this book, for me, nearly took the place of the instructor that I had for the course. The book is literally that good at explaining concepts to you and providing relevant examples. I'm not sure what some reviewers meant when they found a gap between the examples and the problems at the end of the chapters, but I did not have this problem anywhere that I can recall.

What I like most about this book, compared to most of the math books I've seen in my day (more than enough, I assure you) is the format of the writing and the exposition of the problems. There are clear, clear connections made between visual and mechanical aspects of the problem. When you are working a linear algebra problem from the book, you should have a good idea of visually what it looks like that you're doing, where columns and rows are positioned, what elements from each are multiplying by the other and what the end result should look like before you get there. I don't typically get this vivid connection between the abstract visualization of the problem and the actual mechanics in other books, but this one poured it on consistently and I really enjoyed that.

The writing style is also casual enough that you don't feel as if you're being led through chapter after chapter of rote and repetition. Instead, it feels like you're being led further and further toward your understanding of the subject and you really are learning something new along the way at each step.

Regardless of what others say, I think that if you have the financial means and the interest, you should definitely include this book in your repertoire of linear algebra references. It is a gem, a guide and an indispensable reference for the subject. There is no other linear algebra text like it.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Elementay & Intermediate Algebra
The book was brand new.. and in the wrapper. The only bad thing is that I needed "MyMathLab",too. I was under the impression that it came with the book if you bought it new. If you need the book & the "MyMathLab"... then specifically search it that way so you will be given that option. THANKS!

Cheap, New, and Fast
I recieved my book promptly, in perfect condition, and for way cheaper than at my college.

Algebra book review
The book is very good.It gives many examples for you to use as practice.It explains everything very well and that means a lot, especially since I have not taken algebra in about 25 years.Also I would like to say thanks to Amazon for being so prompt in shipping my order. I ordered the book at 8pm and it arrived by UPS at 10am the next day.

this was really helpful!!
the instructors edition has all the answers..which was useful for last minute homework and the price i paid online was the price the college was selling the used copy for. what a great deal

awesome
excellent text. clear and easy to read. very helpful for my advanced algebra course. instructions were spectacular with good review at end of chapter and sufficient practice. Highly recommended.
... Read more

Book Description
<>Gets Them Engaged. Keeps Them Engaged

Customer Reviews (2)

A math book with a sense of humor
If you take the time to read the book it is engaging and sometimes funny. The author explains the math very well using real-world situtations.The application problems are great for bringing the concepts home.

Best review and ramp up to algebra seen
Very much liked the review of the prerequisite math rules needed to make progress with algebra.Good examples, good practice problems. ... Read more

Book Description

KEY MESSAGE:The Lial series has helped thousands of readers succeed in developmental mathematics through its approachable writing style, relevant real-world examples, extensive exercise sets, and complete supplements package.

The Real Number System; Linear Equations and Inequalities in One Variable; Linear Equations and Inequalities in Two Variables: Functions; Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities; Exponents and Polynomials; Factoring and Applications; Rational Expressions and Applications; Roots and Radicals; Quadratic Equations

For all readers interested in Beginning Algebra.

Book Description
This fourth edition shifts the focus away from mechanical rules, computation, and basic skills to emphasize concepts and modeling. It is written in a way that gets readers to explore how algebra is used in the world around them. The authors include the most varied and compelling set of applications available in the market. Readers will also find a problem-solving approach that motivates them to learn the material. ... Read more

Book Description
Intermediate Algebra is 1-semester gateway course to other college-level mathematics courses.The goal of the Intermediate Algebra course is to provide students with the mathematical skills that are prerequisites for courses such as College Algebra, Elementary Statistics, Liberal-Arts Math and Mathematics for Teachers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Intermediate Algebra Book
I was very impressed with how fast the book arrived.It also arrived in great condition.I would definately consider doing business with this vendor again.

Book needs more explanations and less fluff
Book needs more explanations on problems and less "Study habit reminders" and other fluffy stuff that I just skip over. What student has time to read the "extra optional stuff"?
In my humble opinion, this book doesn't explain problems well.
It doesn't explain WHY. It assumes you know WHY problems are solved in certain ways.

For example, on page 110, she throws a property at you:

"If A is a positive number, then | X | < a is equivalent to -a < X < a."

It would really help me understand this property if I knew WHY| X | < a is equivalent to -a < X < a.

The answer book should explain more also - especially for problems that are different from the examples.

I do like the idea of concept checks though.

Sometimes complex
This book covers many problems but lacks descriptive solutions. I could not get a good concept of how to solve the problems because most of the solutions were broken into several sections. This book does give some of the answers but again it does lack descriptive solutions.

I can't wait to get this book!
In my pre-algebra I and II classes, we used Martin-Gay's books.They were wonderful!They're easy to understand and follow with plenty of exercises.I was looking forward to using her books for Intermediate Algebra.I was extremely disappointed to find that the college switched to a different book...one that isn't helpful at all.I'm planning on using Martin-Gay's book along side our college textbook we now have.Hopefully, the lightbulb will be going on much quicker!

Very Complete
This book won't let you get stuck, it explains all concepts clearly. It offers a good beginning algebra review, and gives you a thorough dose of the tougher stuff. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Learning to TEST or Learning to UNDERSTAND?
My mother is a Ph.D. in mathematics and taught Jr. and Sr. High math for several years before moving up to teach college math. She has been pretty vocal that the only math text that will result in imparting a poor understanding of mathematical concepts--a false sense of mastery while using it, but poor retention after--is Saxon. She says that every time she has a home schooled student who is really struggling at the college level and they say "But I did so well in math before!" and they are traumatized at the level of tutoring help they need to make it in college, they all have in common the fact that they learned math using Saxon texts in high school.

After she impressed this on me, I was really leery about choosing jr. & sr. high school curriculum a couple years ago and asked her to go to me with convention to help me pick something out. She said, "You are good at math and a good teacher. Just pick something you like that is NOT SAXON!"I'm not exaggerating. It's the spiral learning method that they use. It doesn't give enough thorough practice of all the variations of a particular concept before moving on and too heavily relies on review throughout. That seems to impedes long-term retention.She thinks the fact that it is so dull and methodical is also ridiculous in this day and age of fabulous graphics and the trend to make math more interesting and multi-modal for the average student who doesn't love math.

I find it interesting that on their website, of the 6 research studies of their curriculum, only one includes high school; the other five utilized k-8 or 6-8 curriculum.Maybe all that dry rote learning makes a student test better. But the sad part is when it comes to taking that learning and building on it, they don't really understand the concepts behind it and can't apply future learning to what they simply practiced over and over but don't really know. Kind of like cramming for a test by going over everything you've learned right beforehand and blocking everything else out until you take the test and then POOF! everything you repeated over and over in your head beforehand just seems "gone" once you go back to normal habits of thinking/doing and you stop all that repetition.

Lots of stuff
I haven't studied it carefully, but from what I've seen this is a good book--though in a few places the language did seem odd--perhaps that's "New Math".

Algebra 1
This book is not evil. At my school this is the book we use and this book is meant to be taken in 9th grade (at my school). The reason It doesn't get 5 stars is because:
We learn the lessons and then its like "Oh yeah I get it"... later on in the book, they contort the questions from that lessons. When you go back to refresh your memory... it is like that problem never exsisted.
DO NOT skip from the Math 87 book to Algebra 1. If you skip it will cost you later.
The great thing about this book is that for the most part you can always go back and re-read. They also tell you where each problem comes from (lesson). I am saying nice things about this book even though I despise Algebra. That's saying something. If you are getting home schooled and you aren't good at math then I reccomend this book. If you are a math genius, you need Abeka books. They are challenging and colorful.

Math for Homeschooling Parents
As homeschooling parents, we needed a direction in math that allowed our son to be slightly independent, as neither of us progressed beyond college algebra for our careers.Admittedly, our son has a high aptitude for math, which greatly increases the success based on a book in Saxon's curriculum.

The format of Algebra I is very straightforward. In each section, a few pages are spent explaning the lesson, with examples and solutions.New terms are introduced as needed and constantly referred back to in later lessons.The problem sets (30 in each lesson - 120 lessons in all) spend a handful of questions on the current lesson, and constantly rehash previous lessons. For example, lesson 10 may include about 5-8 problems from lesson 10, then 5 from lesson 9, 5 from lesson 8, and maybe 10 from previous others, especially from important or milestone lessons where something new was introduced.

The tests follow the same format.Yes, there is a lot of overlap, but what we found was that since the same concepts were quizzed on every lesson, our son became very quick to solve them.He began to skip steps and do much of the work in his head after a while.For strong math students, this is common, and may not be related to the book itself.

I was concerned about homeschooling math largely because I never took advanced courses in college.I was able to "re-learn" Algebra by following along in this book and occasionally doing some of the problem sets.Our son enjoys the format and is eager to start Algebra 2, using the Saxon book.

Overall, especially for teachers that are not math wizards, the Saxon format works well.Our son said that although the problem sets get tedious, he thought that by going over the material over and over again, he was able to do well on the tests.

I'm Glad I Found This!
This is avaluable resource if your are checking your child's homework.I was checking my 8th grader's homework each night and having him to redo the problems that he missed.However, in order to check it, I was having to work each one of the problems!It was taking 30-45 minutes just to check a lesson.Now that I have the solutions manual, I can check the homework and see what he did wrong.The manual not only lists the answers, it has the solutions for each problem.This has saved me valuable time in getting homework checked each evening.If your child is using Saxon math - get one!I have the Algebra 1/2 manual as well. ... Read more

Book Description
The Bittinger System for Success—Make It Work For You! Building on its reputation for accurate content and a unified system of instruction, the Tenth Edition of the Bittinger paperback series integrates success-building study tools, innovative pedagogy, and a comprehensive instructional support package with time-tested teaching techniques. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Good Descriptive Math Book
I bought This book for a Math Class, I highly disagree with the Previous reviewer, Math is an important subject, (how else could this other person know how much they spent on there credit card each month?) If you don't know math, then you are at a disadvantage to everyone else. Math Is Not dead, like latin, It is just as alive as American English. It is just not understood, Please let me tell you I am no math Major, I am a dislexic who has worked hard to over come my mental mix-ups. So in regards to this particular Math book? It is very detailed and informative, So I am very pleased with it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

This book is the pits
I am by no means a math wizard.I am, however, able to learn things on my own fairly well.This book makes that nearly impossible though.This book gives very few examples, and the few that they do give rarely give any clues to what needs to be done to solve the equations.It also fails to really teach anything.It's by no means for a student that is going to be going through an online course where they won't be interfacing with an instructor.I would not have enrolled into the course for online schooling if I had know this books was going to be this terrible.I strongly don't recommend this book!!!

Sadly disappointed
This text is a pathetic excuse for educational material.It gives meager examples and many are not even applicable to the chapter exercises.By far this is the poorest written text I have encountered in three years of college.

Now I'm scared!
I'm getting ready to take Intermediate Algebra using a text by this author.I will be required to take College Algebra next term and am hoping, after reading your reviews, that this is NOT the book that will be required for the class.Did anyone get value from "math help" websites? Thanks!

I think I know why they use this book
After reading the previous reviews for this book, I realized one question kept surfacing. Why? Why did my instructor choose this book?
A very likely answer is this book could have been chosen based on the margin of profit the school bookstore makes off of it. I don't know this for certain, but I have encountered similiar problems with texts chosen when I was in college. A useless, high-priced text book was often a sign of a greedy college bookstore. I would tend to suspect this when we were required to spend quite a bit for inferior texts--esp. ones that changed editions often (requiring you to buy the 'newest' book). The instructor may have had little to do with the choice.
I don't have much to say about this particular book, but when in this type of situation there are a few steps you can take. Attend every class and take good notes. If you notice most of the other students don't understand a particular concept, go to the instructor and ask that the lesson be repeated. Use the book only to work the assigned problems- use your notes for the methods.
Hope this helps!

College Algebra, 9th edition, by Lial
I just got done with taking my final in College Algebra using this textbook.I was extremely frustrated and stressed during the whole course because I just couldn't get it!This book did not explain enough and just quickly glossed over or assumed that you knew the info already.Definitely not written for students, but for professors alreadygifted in algebra!!Needless to say, I struggled through this whole course.I had to buy three other algebra books just to understand what this textbook left out.I would not recommend this textbook at all! ... Read more

Book Description
This dynamic new edition of this proven series adds cutting edge print and media resources. An emphasis on the practical applications of algebra motivates learners and encourages them to see algebra as an important part of their daily lives. The reader-friendly writing style uses short, clear sentences and easy-to-understand language, and the outstanding pedagogical program makes the material easy to follow and comprehend. KEY TOPICS Chapter topics cover basic concepts; equations and inequalities; graphs and functions; systems of equations and inequalities; polynomials and polynomial functions; rational expressions and equations; roots, radicals, and complex numbers; quadratic functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; conic sections; and sequences, series and the binomial theorem. For the study of Algebra. ... Read more

Book Description
Teacher Josh Rappaport gives Algebra 1 new life with his lively, user-friendly text and illustrations by award-winning artist Sally Blakemore.This study guide meets the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Worthwhile review/companion to textbook

If you need a review of algebra basics, or you need a companion book for use as you study algebra for the first time, this book may be very helpful.The explanations were clear, and the examples were good.The accompanying humor was reasonable, and would no doubt appeal to adolescents.

The only thing I didn't like much was the jiggledy-jaggledy artwork - that was a little hard on my eyes, and somewhat distracting. But if you watch a lot of TV (as most young folks do), you would probably like the artwork - it has the scattered wild and crazy appearance found in many cartoons.

I recommend this book if you need help with basic concepts of algebra.It would probably be very good for homeschoolers, especially when the teacher could use a little algebra refresher while they are teaching.

Excellent
As a nearly-30 year old about to start college for the first time, this book was a huge help. I struggled with Algebra in high school, and when I tried to test-out of it for school, it did not go well. With the help of this book (and the county learning lab) I passed the test the 2nd try.
Almost any question I had while working out a problem was asked and answered on the next page. I used the matching workbook, which I highly recommend.
The only thing I wish it had touched on was inequalities (on their own and in graphing).
It was almost fun!

Awesome
I got this book after reading the reviews online so I decided to try it out. I am brushing up on my math skills after being out of school for ten years, and reentering college. I had gotten other books but I was still confused and having a hard time. After I cracked this open everything made sense and came back to me. I like how the book is in Q and A format and how it gives you little tricks to learning how do do Algebra. This book is wonderful if you are just starting Algebra or looking to brush up on your skills. This is a must have.

Teaching the Teachers
I'm a teacher trainer for a program in which elementary school teachers must sometimes work with older students, and some of our teachers are really intimidated by the idea of teaching algebra. After an initial recommendation and review of this book, our program purchased a number of copies for our teachers' reference. The concepts are explained very clearly, with good examples and a few practice problems. (Sadly, the textbook required by our district is much more confusing!) There's also a workbook, which we later purchased. Some of our teachers use this book with their students to supplement the school textbook--but we really bought it to help the teachers re-learn algebra! The only quibble we have with this book is the background graphics, which are overpowering and kind of distracting. But it's worth it for the excellent explication of algebra concepts. I would happily recommend this book to students, parents, and teachers. I will note that the level is early algebra, stopping short of things like quadratic equations, but then, that's where a lot of our students get bogged down.

This is the formula for my problems!
I have been shopping for a good tutorial algebra book for several weeks so that I could help my struggling teenagers.I probably would not have shopped this book because the cover gave me the impression of chaos.I feared that the pages would be full of text that would baffle us even more.I bought this book and workbook based on the customer's reviews...and am I happy I did so.I learned not to judge a book by its cover.The book layout is easy to read with one problem per page in step-by-step detail.This is exactly what I've been seeking.Too bad Rappaport does not have a book on Geometry...that's our next level.
ps.The only reason I did not rate this book a 5 is because the contents covers ten fundamentals whereas other books cover a bit more.But the layout is worth the compromise. ... Read more

Book Description
For students who are intimidated by all forms of math, here is a set of easy steps that lead to an understanding of elementary algebra. The author defines all terms, points out potential pitfalls in algebraic calculation, and makes problem solving a fun activity. New in this edition are painless approaches to understanding and graphing linear equations, solving systems of linear inequalities, and graphing quadratic equations.

Barron’s popular Painless Series of study guides for middle school and high school students offer a lighthearted, often humorous approach to their subjects, transforming details that might once have seemed boring or difficult into a series of interesting and mentally challenging ideas. Most titles in the series feature many fun-to-solve “Brain Tickler” problems with answers at the end of each chapter. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Outstanding book
I've had to brush up on Algebra (I haven't used it in decades) and this book does an outstanding job. As a previous reviewer noted, the graph (on page 31) pertaining to rational/irrational numbers is; indeed, incorrect but, as far as I can tell, that's about the only error (BTW, the book does describe the difference between the two sets of numbers correctly - only the diagram is wrong).

Generally speaking, the exercises were excellent and so were the explanations. My only criticism are 1), I wish there were more exercises) and 2), all of the answers need to be explained - there are a few "tricky" questions that are very difficult to figure out if one hasn't used Algebra in a long time. It would be very helpful for the author to come up with a workbook that was correlated with each chapter in "Painless Algebra," in order to further reinforce concepts covered.

The final chapter, on quadratic equations (the bane of my algebraic existence) was the only one that provided much grief. As with most things in mathematics, there is more than one way to find a solution. I ended up using solutions found in other books, that were a bit clearer. Of course, that may just be me and I certainly wouldn't use that criticism to prevent others from using this book - overall, "Painless Algebra" was very well written and I would highly recommend it to others.

Because I completely forgot everything I learned in school...
This book is easy to understand. I had forgotten absolutely EVERYTHING about algebra. This book is good for anyone who will be starting like I did.

There is also a CD Rom that teaches it (called "before you know it algebra"), It doesn't come with the book Painless Algebra. it's also geared towards younger kids, but it's good to have as many resources as you can when self teaching, so it can be explained in more ways than one for more understanding.

These books saved me from having to take pre-algebra as a prerequisite course in college, and I was able to start my degree program earlier. Buying the book saved me hundreds that I would have had to shell out between the classes and the expensive textbooks.

1st diagram I saw was incorrect
I am homeschooling my son, so I bought this book as a way to make Algebra easier for him. He's only in third grade, so I don't need it yet.However, I was explaining something to him regarding a calculation and wanted to see how the book would describe it.I thumbed thru the book and the first diagram I saw was on page 31.It was of the different number systems. It incorrectly showed that irrational numbers are a subset of rational numbers. I was a math major in college and know otherwise. Also, the book describes it otherwise. Because of this - the first thing I saw, now I'm questioning the whole series.Sad.

Good refresher
This book is a good refresher, much like Cliff Notes.It could be a bit more explanatory in areas, but overall it is a great book to thumb through for the basics.

A GREAT BUY!!!
This is a very helpful, easy to understand, painless way to learn algebra! It is filled with helpful tips and examples. I highly recomend this book to anyone. ... Read more

Book Description

Key Message: The Lial series has helped thousands of readers succeed in developmental mathematics through its approachable writing style, relevant real-world examples, extensive exercise sets, and complete supplements package.

Book Description

Intended for developmental math courses in beginning algebra, this text retains the hallmark features that have made the Aufmann texts market leaders: an interactive approach in an objective-based framework: a clear writing style, and an emphasis on problem-solving strategies. The acclaimed Aufmann Interactive Method, allows students to try a skill as it is introduced with matched-pair examples, offering students immediate feedback, reinforcing the concept, identifying problem areas, and, overall, promoting student success.

• New! Interactive Exercises appear at the beginning of an objective's exercise set (when appropriate), and provide students with guided practice on some of the objective's underlying principles.
• New! Think About It Exercises are conceptual in nature and appear near the end of an objective's exercise set. They ask the students to think about the objective's concepts, make generalizations, and apply them to more abstract problems. The focus is on mental mathematics, not calculation or computation, and help students synthesize concepts.
• New! Important Points have been highlighted to capture students' attention. With these signposts, students are able to recognize what is most important and to study more efficiently.
• New! A Concepts of Geometry section has been added to Chapter 1.
• New! Coverage of operations on fractions has been changed in Section 1.3 so that multiplication and division of rational numbers are presented first, followed by addition and subtraction
• New! A Complex Numbers section has been added to Chapter 11, "Quadratic Equations."
• New Media! Two key components have been added to the technology package: HM Testing (powered by Diploma) and, as part of the Eduspace course management tool, HM Assess, an online diagnostic assessment tool.

Book Description
Elayn Martin-Gay's success as a developmental math author starts with a strong focus on mastering the basics through well-written explanations, innovative pedagogy and a meaningful, integrated program of learning resources. The revisions to this edition provide new pedagogy and resources to build reader confidence and help readers develop basic skills and understand concepts.New and revised topic coverage includes linear graphing, slope, equations of lines, and introduction to functions; direct and inverse variation; factoring trinomials by grouping; slope as a rate of change; and interval notation. In addition, Martin-Gay's 4-step problem solving process-Understand, Translate, Solve and Interpret-is integrated throughout. Also includes new features such as Study Skills Reminders, "Integrated Reviews", and "Concept Checks."For readers interested in learning or revisiting essential skills in beginning algebra through the use of lively and up-to-date applications. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Defending this book!!!!!
I was taking begining algebra for the second time this semester.I love this book.In the bookstore, it came bundled with the solution manual and the CDROM lecture series which are a must for anyone that struggles with math or misses a lot of class.I missed a month of class last semester and this semester.What made the difference in being able to pass this semester is this book, the lectures on CDROM by the author and the solution manual.If I had the book I used before last semester, I would have failed again!This book with all the fixings is the BEST.

Very well written
It had been 37 years since I had last worked an algebra problem. This book is very good and I didn't find it difficult to understand or to work the problems.

Beginning Algebra
This book is in great condition For being used, no writting on any pages or the covers, no bent pages, over all in perfect condition, and I am picky on how a book looks. I hardly even used the book because I ordered it and it was the worng book but I looked through it and used it to study until I got the right book.

Wrong book, no response to email complaint
The book is the incorrect edition of the one I ordered.It is a math book, and inappropriately is the annotated instructor's edition.The invoice is correct, but the book is not.The company, SRJbooks2@yahoo.com has not responded to my complaint and request to corrct the order.

Ok
This book was required for my math instruction, and as several readers have mentioned before, I am glad that the instructor was an excellent teacher the book by itself is no use. Unless you understand math to begin with.

However used with an excellent instructor it becomes a useful tool. ... Read more