Basic Concepts of Algebra

Book excerpt: Book DescriptionBasic Concepts of Algebra is an excellent refresher for algebra. It is also an indispensable reference book re-definitions, theory and steps in solving algebraic problems. It covers a wide range of the necessary concepts and content that will help the learner to develop a good background so as to waltz through algebra. The book has twelve chapters: Numbers; Algebraic Expressions; Indices 1, Roots and Radicals; Indices 2; Equations 1; Equations 2; Inequalities; Factorization; Quadratic Equations; Graphing; Solving Systems of Linear Equations and Logarithms. The goal of this book is to give the learner the necessary and required concepts, skills and knowledge so as to be successful in algebra. It is the author's view that a good grasp of the basic concepts of algebra will enable and encourage competence in statistics, geometry, trigonometry and calculus. The learner is therefore encouraged to go through each topic in this book meticulously and remember to practice questions from the exercises. The concepts are set out in a clear format with definitions, examples and exercises. To make sure that you understand the material, each chapter ends with a summary exercise. You should get the most from this book if you work steadily from the beginning to the end in each chapter. Each chapter has the relevant topics and sub-topics with definitions and examples that will allow the learner to easily workout the problems in the exercises.This book is suitable for high school and first year college students. It may be introduced at the upper elementary level and be used right up to adult education. The book is good for those persons who are a bit rusty in algebra or have forgotten content materials because it has been awhile since they have taken an algebra course. If such is the case then this is the perfect book for you to refresh your skills and sharpen your proficiency in core concepts of algebra.Finally I would like to reiterate that algebra can be fun but the learner has to first get a good grasp of the basic concepts so as to have a rewarding experience which will not only advance competency level in algebra but will be favorable for further studies in mathematics. Remember to make a firm commitment to spend the time to study and practice your algebra.