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Practical Algebra: A Self-Teaching Guide, 2nd Edition

Practical Algebra: A Self-Teaching Guide, 2nd Edition

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Authors: Peter H. Selby, Steve Slavin
Publisher: Wiley
Category: Book

List Price: $19.95
Buy New: $10.98
You Save: $8.97 (45%)



New (35) Used (30) from $6.98

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars 64 reviews
Sales Rank: 4940

Media: Paperback
Edition: 2
Pages: 336
Number Of Items: 1
Shipping Weight (lbs): 1.3
Dimensions (in): 9.6 x 7 x 1

ISBN: 0471530123
Dewey Decimal Number: 512.077
EAN: 9780471530121

Publication Date: February 14, 1991
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Shipping: Expedited shipping available
Condition: Unread Book In Excellent Condition. No Creases On Cover Or Spine. Same Day Shipping !!!

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Editorial Reviews:

Product 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
Authors Peter Selby and Steve Slavin emphasize practical algebra throughout by providing you with techniques for solving problems in a wide range of disciplines—from engineering, biology, chemistry, and the physical sciences, to psychology and even sociology and business administration. Step by step, Practical Algebra shows you how to solve algebraic problems in each of these areas, then allows you to tackle similar problems on your own, at your own pace. Self-tests are provided at the end of each chapter so you can measure your mastery.



Customer Reviews:   Read 59 more reviews...

5 out of 5 stars I wish there were 6 stars   June 27, 2000
125 out of 126 found this review helpful

I'd certainly award them to Mr. Selby and Dr. Slavin's book. I'm not finished with the text, but I'm learning so well that I KNOW I will have mastered the material. In fact, I just ordered the book which they recommend as a follow-up, "Geometry and Trigonometry for Calculus." They start out with baby steps -- literally simple addition and subtraction, and work up to fairly sophisticated algebraic expressions and problems. The student finds himself enjoying the material almost like it were a novel. Selby and Slavin give immediate answers for ALL the problems, so there's no frustration wondering if the problem is solved correctly. If the student misses a certain number of problems in a set, the authors recommend review of specific "frames" which cover the material. They treat the student with respect, making it clear that NO ONE (least of all someone who is motivated to study through their text) is a dummy. This is so much easier than trying to keep up with a math teacher who scribbles and then erases the material on a blackboard about as fast as he/she can write. I now know that self-paced learning is the way to go, at least for me. Many years ago, I failed calculus in college, and barely squeaked through college algebra and trigonometry. I fully intend to use this framework as a basis to repeat the course (even if via correspondence) and get this only blotch on an otherwise fine college career off my record. How sad that Mr. Selby has passed on, but how great it is that his books live still.


5 out of 5 stars The BEST quick-start book to learn Algebra..   February 11, 2001
Kersi Von Zerububbel (San Diego, CA USA)
141 out of 144 found this review helpful

If you have been away from Algebra for a while or even if you have just started learning Algebra this book is for you. The authors have done a truly masterful job of explaining the basic concepts of Algebra. But more than that, the book has frequent tests and exercises which will help you to see if you are truly learning the stuff. Another great feature is that things are presented in a succinct and cogent manner. There is no patronizing prose or cute stories to bore you.

One thing I recommend strongly. Get well versed with chapters 2 through 4. These are the "nail and hammer" chapters in the book. Techniques like factoring, exponent manipulations, and simplification are explained. If you do not get these techniques nailed down you will be hounded with difficulties in later chapters. I re-read the chapters 3 times as well as worked the problems. I also recommend that as you go along begin solving pertinent problems from "REA'S Algebra & Trigonometry Problem Solver". This may take some time but your efforts will be well rewarded.

I highly recommend this text for anyone learning Algebra. But specially if you are like myself, just "doing" Algebra after a long hiatus, grab this book. A must have !


5 out of 5 stars Completely understandable walk through of Algebra   February 18, 1998
MJGaber@FairIsaac.com (San Rafael, California)
77 out of 78 found this review helpful

I recently had to get back into Math. I was not anxious since it had been about 10 years since I had to practice and test myself on Math. I asked my College Counselor (College of Marin) who recommended your book "Practical Algebra: A Self Teaching Guide". I was afraid!! But once I got into the book, from Page 1, I felt comfortable. I felt as if the instructor was there with me, supporting me and teaching me all at once. I felt completely at ease with the structure, the pace and the questions. Thank you so much for allowing my return to Math be so painless.


5 out of 5 stars a book that feels like a real teacher   August 7, 1999
69 out of 70 found this review helpful

This book helped me re-learn my algebra skills after 9 years, for a college placement test. I passed!!! I strongly recommend this book as a valuable tool to study algebra.


5 out of 5 stars Excellent!!!!!   July 15, 1999
57 out of 58 found this review helpful

This book is the greatest thing since sliced bread. I am getting ready to start college, and I wanted to major in theoretical physics but all I had ever taken was basic math through school. This book helped me learn more in one week than a high school teacher could in a month. If you want to learn algebra, and are good in arithmitic buy this book and see for yourself.

 
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