Product 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 I 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 I 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 I For Dummies can give you the tools you need to succeed.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #21059 in Books
• Published on: 2001-09-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 384 pages

From the Back Cover
Get the right solution every time –– algebra the fun and easy way!

Includes a great glossary of algebraic terms for easy reference

The pain–free way to explore algebra––and come out smilin′
Does the word polynomial make your hair stand on end? Let Mary Jane Sterling show you the easy way to tackle algebra. This friendly guide explains the basics––and the tougher stuff––in easy–to–understand, no–nonsense language. Whether you want to brush up on your math skills or help your children with their homework, this book gives you power––to the nth degree.

Discover how to:
∗ Find out about fractions and explore exponents
∗ Figure out factoring
∗ Solve Linear equations
∗ Factor quadratic equations
∗ Graph equations
∗ Solve story problems
The Dummies Way(TM)
Explanations in plain English
∗ "Get in, get out" information
∗ Icons and other navigational aids
∗ Tear–out cheat sheet
∗ Top ten lists
∗ A dash of humor and fun

Get Smart! www.dummies.com
∗ Sign up for daily eTips at www.dummiesdaily.com
∗ Choose from among 33 different subject categories
∗ Get news you can use on everything from money to health to computers

About the Author
Mary Jane Sterling has been an educator since graduating from college. Teaching at the junior high, high school, and college levels, she has had the full span of experiences and opportunities while working in education. She has been teaching at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, for the past twenty years.

Customer Reviews

Algebra HELP!
I've just started a university course that i needed a little element of Algebra to make certain calculations

This book explains topics very well. The only things which i think it lacks is having questions that the reader can work through to improve their own skills.

Great book, but only good for reference/understanding.

It's made algebra fun!!!
This book has been one of the best buys I've purchased. Clear, simple to understand examples of the basics of algebra. I've just bought the accompanying workbook and Algebra II. Would certainly recommend this for anyone, like myself, who need to learn the rudiments of algebra quickly and in a stress-free fashion.

Excellent guide - an algebra book that's hard to put down.
I bought this along with the same author's Trigonometry for Dummies and Algebra II for Dummies. There are overlaps with Algebra II and this book will probably suit most needs up to A/S level. Mary Jane Sterling writes very well, with clear step-by-step instructions and little reminders of facts previously covered. She has a huge depth of teaching experience and it really shows - interesting little facts are included to engage and keep attention, with reinforcement of the basics throughout. This writer loves maths, she can teach it as an enthusiast but without losing clarity for those who are maths-phobic, a really rare combination.

Very little existing mathematical knowledge is presumed, and in the usual Dummies style, the most helpful information is targeted. The fact that the book was originally written for an American audience presents few problems. However, if you would like a specifically UK/Irish English guide, Dr Graham Lawler's wonderful Understanding Maths has an excellent section on Algebra. It doesn't go quite as far as Algebra For Dummies, hence my purchase of this book. I'm glad I bought this.