The simplest and most practical all-in-one guide to algebra

In the newly revised Third Edition of Practical Algebra: A Self-Teaching Guide, a team of award-winning math teachers delivers an accessible roadmap for learning algebra. Completely revised to align with the math standards used in many states, this edition provides an overview of such topics as linear and quadratic equations, ratios and proportions, functions, statistics, word problems, and modeling. It also briefly reviews pre-algebra, including arithmetic and fractions.

With over 500 images and tables, 200 model examples, and almost 1,500 exercises with answers, this book has concrete strategies that help diverse students to succeed. It also describes techniques for avoiding common student errors and technology tips that apply no matter what device is being used.

Practical Algebra is perfect for high school and college students, adults returning to school, and lifelong students who want to refresh their understanding of algebra. Readers will come away with better test scores and greater mathematical confidence.

“Practical Algebra is a go-to guide for all learners of algebra, and the educators and parents who support them. What sets this book apart from other guides is its deliberate use of accessible language and well thought out visuals to illuminate concepts, and the vital inclusion of vignettes highlighting the often-omitted multicultural origins of mathematics.”

—Sendy S. Keenan, Math for America Master Teacher

“Practical Algebra provides easy-to-understand explanations of material typically taught and learned in algebra 1. It's ideal for parents who need a quick refresher in order to help their child as well as for others who need a quick explanation.”

—Kevin Dykema, Mathematics Teacher, Mattawan Consolidated Schools

The most practical, complete, and accessible guide for understanding algebra

If you want to make sense of algebra, check out Practical Algebra: A Self-Teaching Guide. Written by two experienced classroom teachers, this Third Edition is completely revised to align with the Common Core Algebra I math standards used in many states. You’ll get an overview of solving linear and quadratic equations, using ratios and proportions, decoding word problems, graphing and interpreting functions, modeling the real world with statistics, and other concepts found in today’s algebra courses. This book also contains a brief review of pre-algebra topics, including arithmetic and fractions. It has concrete strategies that help diverse students to succeed, such as:

• over 500 images and tables that illustrate important concepts
• over 200 model examples with complete solutions
• almost 1,500 exercises with answers so you can monitor your progress

Practical Algebra emphasizes making connections to what you already know and what you’ll learn in the future. You’ll learn to see algebra as a logical and consistent system of ideas and see how it connects to other mathematical topics. This book makes math more accessible by treating it as a language. It has tips for pronouncing and using mathematical notation, a glossary of commonly used terms in algebra, and a glossary of symbols. Along the way, you’ll discover how different cultures around the world over thousands of years developed many of the mathematical ideas we use today. Since students nowadays can use a variety of tools to handle complex modeling tasks, this book contains technology tips that apply no matter what device you’re using. It also describes strategies for avoiding common mistakes that students make.

By working through Practical Algebra, you’ll learn straightforward techniques for solving problems, and understand why these techniques work so you’ll retain what you’ve learned. You (or your students) will come away with better scores on algebra tests and a greater confidence in your ability to do math.