This eggheads Guide was designed to help you learn algebra in a fun and easy way.
Sometimes learning can be... well, boring. It can also be confusing at times. If it wasnt, wed all have straight As, right? As your guide through the adventure of education, Im here to make things a bit more enjoyable. I studied the boring books so you dont have to. I got straight As and lived to tell about it.
I understand this stuff, and you can too. In this guide, Ill show you what you need to learn to get to the next level. Wherever I can, I explain things in pictures and stories. I break concepts down and teach them step by step. I try to stick with words that you know. In this book, well work together to improve your algebra skills and build your confidence. In this book, well work together to improve your algebra skills and build your confidence.
Confidence is very important, and it comes from trust. You can trust me as your guide, and most important, you can trust yourself. If your algebra knowledge isnt strong enough, lets do something about it!
How this book is organized
This book contains eleven chapters. We recommend you read them in order. Chapter 1 explains how to work with variables . We learn about number properties and the order of operations.
These are basic concepts fundamental to solving algebra problems. Chapter 2 defines expressions . This chapter covers the definition of an expression, parts of expressions, writing and simplifying expressions, and substitution. Chapter 3 describes equations. Equations represent a scale balanced with numbers. You will learn parts of equations and how to simplify and solve them.
Chapter 4 introduces exponents . Exponents tell us how many times a number is multiplied by itself. Well examine exponents of positive and negative numbers, operations with exponents, and negative exponents. Chapter 5 delves into the concept of roots . We will study square roots, cube roots, and operations with roots, which are the inverse (or opposite) of exponents. Chapters 6 and 7 address polynomials and polynomial equations.
Here well learn about parts and types of polynomials, how to simplify polynomials, and how to perform operations with them. We also learn about polynomial equations and how to solve them. Chapter 8 deals with absolute value . Well review the concept of absolute value, which shows how far a number is from zero. Well learn about how this applies to variables so we can solve absolute value equations. Chapter 9 explains inequalities .
Inequalities are values that are not equalone value may be less than or greater than the other. This chapter covers operations with inequalities and how to solve them. Chapter 10 focuses on systems of equations . Well learn how to solve systems of equations in two ways: by substitution and by combining. Chapter 11 concludes with word problems . Word problems in algebra are similar to story problems in basic math.
In this chapter, some common types of word problems are explained. Well also look at how to solve them. As you read each chapter, youll find practice exercises along the way. Complete the exercises to practice what youve learned. The more you use your skills, the better they will stick in your mind. To learn more Ready for more practice? After youve finished this book, visit the egghead website at http://www.petersonspublishing.com/egghead.aspx.
Click the egghead link for even more practice exercises. This book will get you off to a great start. The website can give you that extra algebra boost! Petersons books Along with producing the eggheads Guides, Petersons publishes many types of books. These can help you prepare for tests, choose a college, and plan your career. They can even help you obtain financial aid. Look for Petersons books at your school guidance office, local library or bookstore, or at www.petersonsbooks.com.
Petersons books are now available as ebooks, too! We welcome any comments or suggestions you may have about this book. Your feedback will help us make educational dreams possible for youand others like you.
Introduction
Whats the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of algebra? In the past, you may have seen story problems with Train A traveling at 60 mph and Train B at 40 mph, with a question that asks whether Train A or Train B will arrive first. Solving these types of problems may make algebra seem tedious and downright irrelevant. Were not going to kid youthere are some problems like that in this book. They have to be included to prepare you for what youll face on tests and in school.
Algebra is a standard course in every high school math curriculum. You have to learn it to move on to more advanced courses like geometry and trig. Most standardized tests include algebra problems too, so knowing this subject is a must for scoring well on the GED, ACT, or SAT*. Surprisingly, many jobs require some algebra skills, such as video game developer, animator, investment banker, business owner, and more. *SAT is a registered trademark of the College Board, which was not involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product. But learning all of this isnt just for the purpose of getting a good job or better grades.