Algebra I for Dummies (Paperback)

~ (Author) "You probably have heard the word algebra on many occasions and knew that it had something to do with mathematics..." (more)
Key Phrases: working equations, applying algebra, solving linear equations, Starting Off, Figuring Out Factoring, Going Visual (more...)

Editorial Reviews

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 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.

From the Back Cover

Get the right solution every time — algebra the fun and easy wayTM!

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.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: For Dummies; 1 edition (September 29, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764553259
• ISBN-13: 978-0764553257
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.3 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (41 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #6,426 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

91 of 96 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Not for use if you are starting from the beginning..., August 18, 2005

By	Ann (Michigan) - See all my reviews

Definitely not a book for someone going back to the beginning after a long lapse in math instruction. Book assumes prior knowledge/memory of various algebraic concepts and therefore does not provide information from a foundation upon which to build a full understanding of subject matter. An actual algebraic workbook is more informative.

103 of 110 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Not for Dummies, May 20, 2006

By	A Constant Reader (New York City, NY) - See all my reviews

Now if I were a dummy, and in many ways I am, I would be furious with this book. It doesn't mention until page 4 that the author assumes you've already had a year of algebra. What if I hadn't? What if I was picking up this book because I wanted to learn algebra from scratch? Most anyone would naturally assume that's what this book is for. But right away you'd be lost. Even the "fun facts" would make me heave this thing out the window. Info about "three-term quadratic equations" is a fun fact? Not if you're a compleat dummy and you haven't the foggiest what this woman is talking about. The 2 stars are generous. It's not too bad for an overview of something you already know and merely want to to remember. Thank my stars I do know algebra, but damn...dummies beware.

33 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Read this review before purchasing this book., November 27, 2006

By	Bunny Boy (Chicago) - See all my reviews

I am returning to college after a 12 year hiatus. I recently purchased this book to re-learn algebra for my placement test. PLEASE KNOW THAT THIS BOOK IS ONLY HELPFUL AS A REFRESHER IF YOU HAVE RECENTLY FINISHED AN ALGEBRA I COURSE. This book is full of information which is why I purchased it. But if you need to re-learn algebra it is just too much information to absorb, and is not presented in an easy to understand step by step process. I ended up returning the book for this reason.