Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

A Great Book for Getting to know Abstract Algebra
I am in a abstract algebra class and am using this book along side my text.Unlike my text the book explains the ideas behind the mathematics involved and gives relevant examples of what it is talking about.It does not follow my book exactly in order, but it does have a section on all the topics in the book.I would suggest using this book along (or instead of) side of any text on abstract algebra.

Superb introduction to abstract algebra
I fully agree with the comments of the previous reviewers. This introductory book on abstract algebra is simply superb.
The author uses a discursive language, pretty unusual for a book of this type but extremely effective. While going through this book, you have the impression not of reading a textbook but of "listening" to the author talking to you.
I am not a professional mathematician, and therefore I don't feel entitled to judge about its mathematical rigor but I have read and studied similar textbooks on the subject (like Fraleigh and Gallian) and the clarity of this book surpasses them all.
The author provides lots of exercises and some worked out solutions.
Definitively this is my strongest recommendation for a book on this subject.

Superb clarity
The fluent style and abundant examples make it accessible for practically anyone interested. Highly recommended

Hands down the best written book on introductory abstract algebra
This is an excellent book on abstract algebra that makes the transition into this difficult area
as painless as possible. As a engineer who was forced to learn group theory, I looked in at least 50 books
on this subject (another good choice is
Groups and Their Graphs by Grossman)
and Pinter's treatment was the most user friendly treatment I came across.
Also, this book is in no way dumbed-down as it covers similar ground as Fraleigh's well-known text and goes all the way through Galois Theory.

I have no doubt that most physicists and applied scientists would
also love the style of this book. However, ivory tower mathematics types might put their nose up at the
way Pinter develops the material.
Specifically, this book goes to great lengths to show the scaffolding behind the ideas and proofs. Concrete
examples and toy problems are given without apology.
As a result, the
mathematicsis brought alive and not depicted as cold and detached theorem proving. This book actually
is a perfect response to the snobby elitism exuded by many
advanced math texts.Overall, this book is a model of good mathematics texbook writing.My highest recommendation.

One final comment regarding the dover edition of this text -I would also recommend trying to dig up a used hardcover version of the 2nd edition.
The dover edition is typeset in very small print and is hard to read.

Don't let this book be the one that got away...
Each class I've taken as a grad student, I've gone a little overboard buying all sorts of books on the subject matter. I like that each author has a unique style and approach.

In abstract algebra, there are the standards (Dummit, Hungerford, etc). These are the more down-and-dirty texts. They're good. They're thorough. They're rigorous. They do the job quite well if you already have some familiarity with the subject.

Then there are the older, cheaper books, like Deskins. It's alright. Some people nay-say it, but whatever: it's cheap and is one more voice to add to the choir.

Pinter, though, reads like a novel---and not in a cheesy way. As I waited for a friend in Barnes and Noble, I half-heartedly picked it up to skim through it... The introduction hooked me--it sums up what lies ahead like a movie trailer, leaving one mad to find out the whole story. Some might shrug this book off as a lowly"undergraduate" book, but if this is the case, you're missing out on the one author who has been able to deftly convey just how inspiring this subject really is. No other book has convinced me of the power of abstract algebra like this book.

Will it be the only book you read on the subject? If it is, then it was a good choice.

Having experience with the more standard tomes out there, there is the chance that I think this reads like a novel and is "so good" because I am familiar with the material. But, seriously, this is the kind of book that you're lucky to stumble across, whoever you are: a math nerd, physics geek, bio dweeb, or chem freak. This book will, at the least, open your eyes to well-kept secrets of higher mathematics. ... Read more

Product Description
Represents mathematics as it appears in life, providing understandable,realistic applications consistent with the abilities of any reader. This book develops trigonometric functions using a right triangle approach and progresses to the unit circle approach. Graphing techniques are emphasized, including a thorough discussion of polar coordinates, parametric equations, and conics using polar coordinates.Those looking to master essential skills of Algebra and Trigonometry. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

from a college math instructor
This book is improperly organized - concepts in mathematics must be understood from the easiest level to the most difficult - this book presents the material for memorization, NOT understanding. This is the first time that I encounter math organized in such a way. While everything is explained well enough, the lumping together of too much information for difficult concepts makes it difficult to learn properly. Try McKeague instead, same title, just a much better book.

text book
I never received this book because it got lost in the process. I then had to order it through the school book store and pay full price.

Bad Service
I noticed that I ordered the wrong book about 3 minutes after the order and asked the seller if she could not ship it because of this.She said it already shipped, I did not get the book for 25 days.What a joke, she could have told the truth.

damaged book, company good
When the book arrived, the shipping box was very damaged on one end. The book was not pack properly and also was quite damaged. I returned it and received a refund without a problem. I most likely would order from them again.

Brand new and much cheaper than the college bookstore
This item was at least $60 cheaper than what my college bookstore wanted for it. ... Read more

Product Description
An Algebra Program designed for Student Success! From the first day your students begin to learn the vocabulary of algebra until the day they take final exams and standardized tests, these programs strengthen student understanding and provide the tools students need to succeed ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Great speed!
The book got here -DAYS- before the delivery estimate. It is in the condition described and I will surely get plenty of use out of it.

Great seller, will use again.

Not the book I ordered
This book is a good algebra book but if is not the book I ordered. It was sent to me by the vender knowing it was not the book I ordered. They must have known that I would not sent it back because it was not worth the trouble. However they did advertise that they had the book in their inventory when I ordered it,and then sent me a book they had in inventory. I sent them an email stating that I wanted them to send me the correct book but they never responded.

Good book for a great price.
As a parent, buying text books for my kids can be expensive and frustrating.It is easy to spend a ton on text books.Buying this very usable book and having it shipped to my home in less than a week for less than $20.00 made my day.

Glencoe Algebra 1: integration, applications, connections
Excellent condition-almost new-great for obtaining same copy of school for some summer tutoring in preparation for the school year.

Awful Book!!!
This book is awful. My school uses it and it doesn't explain anything right. It just confuses me more and I still have to finish out the year with it. ugh!!! Don't buy this book!!! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

A Great Preparation for Algebra, Perfect for Homeschoolers, Should Work for All
We homeschooled our kids over a period of years, and Saxon Math, including Algebra 1/2, was always our choice for math texts.I also teach in a classical Christian school where we use Saxon Math as well.I find that for most students, if they will take the time to read the lesson well, do all of the problems, and then rework any problems they miss then they will achieve a high degree of mastery of the material at hand.

This book will adequately prepare math students for Algebra 1, which has proven to be the mathematical Waterloo of many a student.With adequate preparation, it doesn't have to be.Advanced students may be able to move from Math 76 directly to Algebra 1, especially if it seems (as it has to some) that this book moves to slowly or contains too much review.

The greatest advantage of Saxon Math is that each lesson provides practice not only for the new problems but also built-in review for every kind of problem the student has previously encountered.Algebra 1/2 is no exception to the rule that Saxon Math texts help students learn math well.After Algebra 1/2, all of my kids who have taken it were definitely ready to move on to the next level.

In general, Saxon Math, including Algebra 1/2, is highly recommended.It is especially ideal for homeschooling families.

Great for advanced students
The people that give this series of books bad reviews simply don't understand that kids need a lot of repetition to learn math and to retain what they've learned. My husband is a college math teacher and we've homeschooled two kids with these books. He says he wishes all kids learned math this way. He always knows when he gets a homeschooled student in one of his math classesthat they will do well and succeed in the class. The Saxon math books are used by many private schools and homeschoolers and are considered useful for advanced students, not students that struggle, like one reviewer said. My son used the Saxon math series from 2nd grade to age 14 and it prepared him well for college math. He's 15 now and takes Calculus at our local community college. My daughter used it until she decided to go to public high school, where she became bored by the books they used and sadly started hating math. This series gives a very strong foundation because of all the repetition. It may seem boring to some folks, but it works if you give it a chance. : )

A transitional course, only needed if Math 8/7 wasn't fully mastered
BRIEF EVALUATION

I found Algebra 1/2 to cover with only small additions and enhancements the topics that Saxon's Math 8/7 covered already. While it should be very good for students who feel the need to consolidate the material studied during the previous year, my own children felt that there was little new here and they asked me to skip the Algebra Half and go to the full Algebra One, which is what we are about to do.

We had a very good experience with this set but, thanks to my kids being such godd students, we've decided to skip it.

Even though we had to abandon this course after the first half-dozen lessons convinced us that we didn't need it, I will grant the package 5 stars for Saxon's proven effectiveness but be aware that this should be skipped by the more advanced students.



THE SAXON METHOD

We've been using Saxon's books to teach our kids math starting with Math 3/2 and we've been very happy.

Algebra 1/2 (it means ALGEBRA HALF not "Algebra One and Two" is comprised of 123 lessons, 31 tests and a number of Topics labeled from A to J. Unlike the previous Math courses, there are no 'Investigations' and the lessons no longer begin with drills and warmup activities. Also, unlike prior math cycles up to Math 8/7, tests are administered after every four lesson rather than after every five.

Each lesson begins by explaining and illustrating a number of new topics - one, two or sometimes three. That is followed by a small number of practice exercises that are related to the new topics. Finally, there is a 30-item problem set (what the prior volumes were calling 'mixed practice') that asks students to answer/solve 30 questions that could be on EVERYTHING covered by Saxon up to that point. Each individual question has references to the lesson(s) which the students may want to review if they are having trouble with the answer/solution.

After every 4 lessons there is a 20-question test.

The problem set and the multi-topic lessons are what makes the Saxon method so effective as new concepts are introduced incrementally and each problem set keeps revisiting prior topics and many of the problems require the student to combine skills and knowledge aquired in more than one lesson.



THE KIT's CONTENTS

A complete kit should include the following:

- The Algebra 1/2 textbook that includes the 123 lessons, the extra topics, index, glossary and an answer key to the odd-numbered problems.
- Test forms that include the 31 tests plus reproducible test answer sheets.
- Answers and tests solutions booklet that is just that. It only includes the answers not the ways to get there - for that an optional 'Solutions manual' can be obtained separately.


Note: Please be aware that the THIRD edition is now available. This being 'math', the changes are minor but you can probably get 'the latest' for about the same price.

Less Than One STAR!!
I absolutely hate this math book.It does a terrible job at presenting concepts, to little practice of a new concept, and way to much review.I would give it less than one star if it were an option.Please try to go check this book out at a store if you are considering buying it.I bought it because so many people I knew recommended it. I wish I never had.

Saxon Rocks!
Saxon makes it so easy to homeschool!My 4th grader is zipping through pre-algebra on his own because of this simple to use text.LOTS of examples and practice.Plenty of review of old material to keep it in the long-term pool.Uncomplicated language. Easy for mom to shorten length of "seatwork" by crossing-off mastered material.My only gripe so far is that in Lesson 46 they jump right into indexes & radical numbers with no previous explanation (or review)of the concept of squares or square roots.They also didn't use the terms "squared" or "cubed," and offered no explanation of why indexes are written starting with 3, not 2.And, in that same lesson, they used the number 1 in an example to explain powers and to explain simplifying a radical.(I thought that was pretty lame.)
But other than that one bizarre lesson, the book is SO easy to use, your child can teach himself!(I also love how they throw in neat vocabulary words in their word problems.) ... Read more

Product Description

Linear algebra is relatively easy for students during the early stages of the course, when the material is presented in a familiar, concrete setting. But when abstract concepts are introduced, students often hit a brick wall. Instructors seem to agree that certain concepts (such as linear independence, spanning, subspace, vector space, and linear transformations), are not easily understood, and require time to assimilate. Since they are fundamental to the study of linear algebra, students' understanding of these concepts is vital to their mastery of the subject. Lay introduces these concepts early in a familiar, concrete Rn setting, develops them gradually, and returns to them again and again throughout the text so that when discussed in the abstract, these concepts are more accessible.

Customer Reviews (37)

Linear Algebra.
Linear Algebra by David C. Lay is a great book.It is very thorough at explain the matrix and different ideas in Linear Algebra.
Had no issues understanding the material and greatly helped me in class.I basically could only rely on the book as the professor wasn't as available as he should have.

I basically taught myself Linear with only minor issues that were resolved through practice.

NOT A GREAT BOOK
I got this book because I'm taking linear algebra and it is a required textbook. The book does not explain the material clear, and some of the true or false exercises are very ambiguous, it is not base on the general concepts of linear algebra. for example, true or false: A linear transformation is a special type of function, the superposition principle is a physical description of a linear transformation, etc. if you want to learn the basic theory of linear algebra, choose other books.

FIRSTCLASSBOOKS:Linear Algebra and Its Applications
Originally, I gave bad feedback, but after speaking with the company (First Class Books), they went out of their way to rush my textbook at a great price for a new book. I reccomend them.

Apparently not a self-study book
For those of you who plan to find a self-study material, do not count on this book. I'm a PhD in computer science department and I'm looking for some books to brush my understanding about the linear algebra. I'm looking for "notions" instead of "derivations". The author does a good job in the first few chapters but I quickly lost after the vector space. I believe that I have some background, though not solid, in linear algebra, but the writing is so dry that I cannot easily follow the flow. I do believe that the author is very knowledgeable.However, as a self-study material, it would be too tough in my opinion.

If you are looking for a self-study book that is easy to follow (especially for deep topics). Be prepare that understanding the intuition behind the formula is not well addressed in this book. I won't say it's a 1 star book in the view points of quality. But apparently, you learn nothing if you cannot follow it, right?

Do Not Purchase From This Seller!
I purchased a book for school from this seller on 8/06 and still have not received it (now 9/06). I tried to contact the seller a week and a half ago and still have not received a response. I would highly advise that you Do Not purchase anything from this seller. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

No answer key
Not great as a home review book because there are no answers provided.Also, nowhere does it explain which textbook it goes with, though, irritatingly, it tells you which pages it goes with.I can tell you that it does *not* go with 0395977258 Alg & Trig: Structure & Meth Bk 2, McDougal Littel.Where is there a good rigorous Algebra 2 practice book that we can use to supplement at home?But mainly, *what are they thinking* by not including an answer key for something that is meant for additional practice? ... Read more

Product Description

KEY MESSAGE: Elayn Martin-Gay's developmental math textbooks and video resources are motivated by her firm belief that every student can succeed. Martin-Gay's focus on the student shapes her clear, accessible writing, inspires her constant pedagogical innovations, and contributes to the popularity and effectiveness of her video resources. This revision of Martin-Gay's algebra series continues her focus on students and what they need to be successful. Martin-Gay also strives to provide the highest level of instructor and adjunct support.

KEY TOPICS: Review of Real Numbers; Equations and Problem Solving; Graphing; Systems of Linear Equations; Exponents and Polynomials; Factoring Polynomials; Rational Expressions; More on Functions and Graphs; Inequalities and Absolute Value; Radicals, Rational Exponents, and Complex Numbers; Quadratic Equations and Functions; Exponential and Logarithmic Functions; Conic Sections; Sequences, Series, and the Binomial Theorem

MARKET: for all readers interested in algebra.

Customer Reviews (26)

great book
bought this for my sister for a math course at her community college. great book; exactly what was needed.

This is not the book I ordered but you sent it anyway
Really upset that I received a book that I didn't even order it is the wrong one!

dissatisfied
I am very upset with the owner or company of this book.
I emailed them and notified them about the cancellation of my order, and they never responded or gave me feedback on my email.
I canceled my book for a GOOD reason (because i no longer needed that class for college, which meant i no longer needed the book!)..and the owner still chose to send the book out and never replied to my emails.
VERY unprofessional.

Lacks Critical Steps For Problem Solving.
Beginning & Intermediate Algebra (Fourth Edition) by Elayn Martin-Gay is not a well written textbook because it lacks a clear explanation on how algebraic problems are solved, and it does not follow a very methodical manner.Many of the examples lack important steps that are critical in reinforcing the learning process.Whereas some textbooks will show the steps completely, such as Understanding Elementary Algebra and Understanding Intermediate Algebra by Goodman and Hirsch.Secondly, this textbook cost $125.00 which includes a CD ROM (Test Prep Video) and a "MyMathLab" online tutorial kit that requires registration and cost about $[...] which brings a total of $[...]. Finally, students are better off purchasing an algebra textbook that contains precise and easily understood algebraic problems.

2 WORDS GREAT SERVICE
only thing i could say im satisfied with the book its in good condition actually looks new and delivery time was quicker than i expected ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (29)

Very good seller
After I bought the product I realize I don't have to take the test, any way I review the book and it looks OK. in content

REA CLEP College Algebra
The book came in the mail early and in perfect condition.It came with a CD that is still sealed and it is clear that the book is brand new.Great doing business with you.

Truly worth it!
I highly recommend this book for those taking the College Algebra. I scored a B after using this book for two weeks - and it wasn't on a daily basis.

Filled With Typos and Leaves Out Steps
I purchased this book because it seems like the best source to prepare for the College Algebra CLEP test. You will need more study material to pass the actual CLEP test.

This book contains many typos, which are confusing, to say the least. Also, the explanation sections for each provided test leave out important steps that lead to the answer. In basic terms, the language and process goes thusly: This gives you this and then you get this which equals this (whatever the answer may be). You have to figure out the missing steps. So, you will need to have a strong understanding of algebra to fill in the missing steps.

There is a Math Review section, but it is not self-explanatory at all. Again, you'll need some previous algebra knowledge to learn the material. This section contains a lot of the typos. Equal signs are left out; numbers are transposed; wrong numbers are used in some equations.

This book was not proofread well and it is not a reliable source to prepare anyone for the College Algebra CLEP test.

Clep College Credit in College Algebra
This is an excellent reference for the College Algebra
Clep Examination. The volume explains what is needed
to pass the exam along with classic test taking
techniques. This comes from my personal experience in
teaching College Algebra.

Candidates must be thoroughly familiar with the following
areas:

o laws of algebra and numbering systems
o complex numbers, exponents, radicals and scientific
notation
o polynomials, equations, inequalities, absolute values
o quadratic functions

Candidates should have some familiarity with a scientific
calculator. i.e. logs, exponents, squares, roots etc.

Successful candidates should work all 3 exams in the booklet.
The approach toward problem solving and the math review
are invaluable for candidates seeking to learn the material
comprehensively. The volume is an excellent value for the
price charged. Taking and passing the CLEP exam in College
Algebra could be worth thousands of dollars for entering
College Freshmen (people).
... Read more

Customer Reviews (48)

Helps Take the Fear Out of Algebra!
We homeschooled our kids over a period of years, and Saxon Math, including Algebra 1, was always our choice for math texts.I also teach in a classical Christian school where we use Saxon Math as well.I find that for most students, if they will take the time to read the lesson well, do all of the problems, and then rework any problems they miss then they will achieve a high degree of mastery of the material at hand.

Many students meet their mathematical Waterloo in Algebra 1, but it doesn't have to be this way.I've worked with a number of students in Algebra 1 who, in spite of past failure and fear, have succeeded with Saxon Algebra 1.The key is to labor diligently every day: do every problem, check the answers every day, and rework any questions that are missed.

The greatest advantage of Saxon Math is that each lesson provides practice not only for the new problems but also built-in review for every kind of problem the student has previously encountered.Algebra 1 is no exception to the rule that Saxon Math texts help students learn math well.After Algebra 1, all of my kids who have taken it were definitely ready to move on to the next level.

In general, Saxon Math, including Algebra, is highly recommended.It is especially ideal for homeschooling families.

Manual very helpful
This is the first year we have used Saxon.I was a bit intimidated but now am very impressed.The solutions manual is very helpful. It would be a much needed tool if you were a bit rusty on math since it includes not only the answers but showing the work.

Just what I expected
The description of the product was accurate.This book is the solutions manual, not just the answers, for the algebra 1 book.Because we see step by step how to get he answer, it helps our children understand the process,which is critical to algebra.If you have the algebra 1 book, you need the solutions manual, not just the answer key.It will save you hours of frustration and gives everyone more confidence to tackle those difficult problems.

Typical Saxon
Notice all the reviews are older for this book. Math has changed a lot in the last 10 years due to calculators and computers.

I've taught and tutored high school and college math for over 20 years. Saxon books are generally recognized by most teachers across the country as not being very good. They don't give students enough practice with a topic, they don't present the material well, and they offer an insufficient amount of supplementary material.

Math is like a sport. If you just learned to shoot a basketball through a hoop, trying it twice isn't enough. This is how Saxon presents the material.

Saxon is good for elementary school, but after 6th grade it tends to lead kids to math anxiety because of the lack of practice. Home schoolers have a momentum of using these texts and they should ask the opinion of professionals (high school and college professors) regarding their use.

Great Curriculum! Easy to use, easy to teach.
I've used Saxon math for a few years now. The Saxon curriculum is easy to use and easy to teach. The incremental development really does teach students the concepts without overwhelming them all at once.I know not every math curriculum is for everyone, but I would encourage anyone looking for a solid, structured math course, to give Saxon a try.We have had tremendous results in our homeschool class and our CAT results. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

No answer key
Excellent workbook and I have no doubt it will help tremendously
with practice skills and really mastering the concepts.
However, there are NO answers so unless you are an A ++
math student this may not be a good book for you. I am trying to find the
teachers guide with answers because I believe this is a good book.
Algebra is my worst subject so I won't be using it with my son yet.

Follows the textbook well
Have not used it much as my son does well in class. Looks like it follows the book really well.

Good book for the price, but no answer key
This book is meant to accompany a pre-algebra textbook referenced in the instructions on each page.If you buy this book, be prepared to give your student significant instruction before making assignments.In other words, this is not a math workbook for a self-directed student.

There is no answer key either, so you'll be spending a lot of time solving problems yourself.

The questions are clear and usually have enough space to complete the work right on the page.

I bought this book for a summer workbook for a soon-to-be 5th grader who is doing advanced mathematics. For the price, the workbook is good, but there are probably workbooks that are easier on parents for summer work.

math book
great book for going over basic skills for pre-algebra. kids are difinetly ready for algebra one when they leave this class.

good book
excellent book for practice and review. very fast shipping also. book was in good condition. ... Read more

Product Description
Algebra is often taught abstractly with little or no emphasis on what algebra is or how it can be used to solve real problems. Just as English can be translated into other languages, word problems can be "translated" into the math language of algebra and easily solved. Real World Algebra explains this process in an easy to understand format using cartoons and drawings. This makes self-learning easy for both the student and any teacher who never did quite understand algebra. Includes chapters on algebra and money, algebra and geometry, algebra and physics, algebra and levers and many more. Designed for children in grades 4-9 with higher math ability and interest but could be used by older students and adults as well. Contains 22 chapters with instruction and problems at three levels of difficulty. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Amazing math help
This summer we had a problem.My daughter had a 50 page math packet to complete.She had forgotten a great deal of what she needed to know to complete her assignment so she turned to this book."It was amazing and it helped me to solve many of the problems.It explains things very well and the style is very easy to learn from.If my teacher taught this way, I would have aced every math test last year".

Real World Algebra
This book is really good and very useful information for Middle School kids. My son likes this book very much and he is enjoying with that.

Real World Algebra
My son began using this material in the gifted program at his school last year in 4th grade.He was always "bored" with math. I bought the book for him to do at home, and he is motivated to spend time learning on his own without coaxing. Very understandable and easy to use. He is able to apply the concepts in other learning situations.

Author is VERY helpful
I use Zaccaro's books with alternative and home based students. All of his texts are fantastic.

For a student who wants to learn, nothing could be better.

If you have a question I have found it very easy to call or email the author and he responds quickly.

Fun overview for introducing Algebra to a gifted youngster
Almost all the books I purchase are bought with an eye towards introducing advance concepts in a fun way to a gifted upper elementary homeschooled student.

This book is clearly fun and the introduction of each concept is simple enough that even a 3rd grade gifted girl can handle. I think it has fun uses. It can be used as a supplement to a regular Algebra text for an accelerated elementary student who just needs a quick explanation of what the concept is about.

The examples are truly real as opposed to useless, star trek questions which one sometimes find in regular brick and mortar textbooks.
A good supplement to have around the house for anyone with little kids who love solving Math problems. ... Read more

Product Description
Gilbert Strang's textbooks have changed the entire approach to learning linear algebra -- away from abstract vector spaces to specific examples of the four fundamental subspaces: the column space and nullspace of A and A'.

Introduction to Linear Algebra, Fourth Edition includes challenge problems to complement the review problems that have been highly praised in previous editions. The basic course is followed by seven applications: differential equations, engineering, graph theory, statistics, fourier methods and the FFT, linear programming, and computer graphics.

Thousands of teachers in colleges and universities and now high schools are using this book, which truly explains this crucial subject.

Chapter 1: Introduction to Vectors; Chapter 2: Solving Linear Equations; Chapter 3: Vector Spaces and Subspaces; Chapter 4: Orthogonality; Chapter 5: Determinants; Chapter 6: Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors; Chapter 7: Linear Transformations; Chapter 8: Applications; Chapter 9: Numerical Linear Algebra; Chapter 10: Complex Vectors and Matrices; Solutions to Selected Exercises; Final Exam. Matrix Factorizations. Conceptual Questions for Review. Glossary: A Dictionary for Linear Algebra Index Teaching Codes Linear Algebra in a Nutshell. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (46)

Not the worst, but close
As an earlier reviewer said, " A wonderful prof, but a terrible, author. "I may have added a couple of more "terribles" had I coined that sentence.As is the tendency with all math majors, massive step skipping in writing texts is the norm, and in fact is seen as a useful tool to get the student to "think" about the concept and prove it themselves.So, since I am likely not as smart as most, when reading the text, I have to "grind it out" and verify every last detail of every equation to be able to "get it".When stepping through the first few chapters of the book and I found the inevitable errors in equations and graphs/figures that are the result of the author not "grinding it out".I assume attention to that level of detail is boring after all of those years as a math major.

It seems the reviewers who think this book is wonderful for non-math majors are math majors!As a post bac student in Computer Science with B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, I needed to review the concepts from long ago in which I was so fundamentally sound to begin with.I was left with, "Is this even the same subject that was so simple the first time around and that we used in nearly every course?".I resorted to digging out my "Vector Mechanics for Engineers" text and reviewing.For me, Strang's book is a waste of money and natural resources.

Gold Standard
I used this book as self study.I was drawn to Gilbert Strang because it seemed to be the gold standard for linear algebra and the popularity is deserved.The one thing I would like to add is the effect of the use of symbolic math software.I used Mathematica but Strang has some code for Mathlab in the book.People have views on this subject but I find that Mathematica does the job well enough.The effect on me is that it made me feel a little insecure by not doing it by hand.Because finding eigenvalues, eigenvectors and row reduction is tedious, I gave in to the temptation of just writing the code which any highschool student can do.While the working Mathematica gave me a good coding skills, I can't help but feel I have some loose ends by relying on the computer too much.

At times I think that doing the problems was mental hazing.I wasn't able to do all of them particularly the more difficult ones.The problems are divided into two parts: the first is the regular problems and the few hard ones.I didn't even touch the hard ones.I good feature of the chapters is at the end there are worked examples where you are given a problem and solve it before you look at the solution.

Finally, Strang's lectures are available at opencourseware at MIT.I think they are also at Youtube.I look back at my self study now and regret not taking advantage of it

Decent but not fantastic
Pros:

1.The coverage of the four fundamental spaces is fantastic.The pictures showing their dimension, orthogonality etc is very very good and easy to remember.And the importance of the understanding of this topic can not be over emphasized.Prof Strang did an excellent job here.
2.The on-line lectures are excellent.Well at least for most of them.

Cons:

The SVD part is not excellent.Prof. Strang agrees that this is the climax of linear algebra.But the presentation of this critical topic is not excellent.The link between the four fundamental spaces and SVD is not so clear.And the related pseudo-inverse is also not so excellent.Unfortunately, the video on SVD also suffers from the same problem.But I would not blame too much on the video.After all, I am not sure if an excellent coverage of SVD can be given within one lecture.But the book should have plenty of space for a good coverage.

For a good SVD coverage, I found the following is good.
1) A good understanding of the four fundamental spaces is very important.Prof. Strang does an excellent job in his book.
2) Some internet articles actually provide good introduction, better than those provided in books
3) An article on-line by Dan Kalman is very comprehensive but not the first thing you should read.
4) Trefethen in his Numerical Linear Algebra has some good (but not complete) description.

School Book
Easy to read.

Very informative.

Sometimes would leave you guessing though. Not enough examples.

Good Book but with unclear parts (then watch the lectures)
The book is half very good and half with unclear parts. Some topics are explained in a very clear and nice way. Other topics are unclear. One exampleis in page 334 where the author tries to prove that a symmetric matrix always have eigenvalues signs that match the pivot signs. The authors asks the reader to look at the changing of values while they "moves to zero". I still can't see this "move to zero" in the matrix multiplication. In other sections he talks about a topic that is only explained further in the book. One example is in page 310 exercise 31 when the author tasks you to work with the Cayley-Hamilton Theorem, but the theorem is only stated clearly in a following exercise. But I would like to note that things that are not well explained in the book are better explained in his lectures. So if you choose to buy the book I would recommend you to watch the video lectures, which are nice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

pre algebra
Nice book. My son and me really liked it. In really good condition. Very pleased

I have never received my book after my payment...
I had very bad experience this time. I would like to let people know that I have never received the book after my payment. I need Amazon's help to get this issue resolved. I have contacted seller through e-mail, but never get back from seller. Please be careful and never order book from this seller....

Awesome 6th grade book
I bought this text book for my brother, and he loved it! This is a great book for students who are newly entering into middle school. There is a smooth transition b/w chapters and I love how my brother has to think a little harder for answering some challenging problems. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is learning pre-algebra.

Table of Contents:

1. Variables, Expressions, and Integers
2. Solving Equations
3. Multi-step Equations and Inequalities
4. Factors, Fractions, and Exponents
5. Rational Numbers and Equations
6. Ratio, Proportion, and Probability
7. Percents
8. Linear Functions
9. Real Numbers and Right Triangles
10. Measurement, Area, and Volume
11. Data Analysis and Probability
12. Polynomials and Nonlinear Functions
13. Angle Relationships and Transformations

Hope this helps.

Better than other book
This book is better than another pre-algebra book we borrowed from school math teacher. The concepts and examples are clear for kids.

Great transition!
This book was delivered promptly in excellent condition as promised.Highly recommend this seller. ... Read more

Product Description
From radical problems to rational functions -- solve equations with ease


Do you have a grasp of Algebra II terms and concepts, but can't seem to work your way through problems? No fear -- this hands-on guide focuses on helping you solve the many types of Algebra II problems in an easy, step-by-step manner. With just enough refresher explanations before each set of problems, you'll sharpen your skills and improve your performance. You'll see how to work with linear and quadratic equations, polynomials, inequalities, graphs, sequences, sets, and more!

100s of Problems!
* Step-by-step answer sets clearly identify where you went wrong (or right) with a problem
* Get the inside scoop on complex numbers and matrices
* Know where to begin and how to solve the most common equations
* Use algebra in practical applications with confidence ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

A lifesaver
Taking an online college algebra class and this workbook has been such a great help in gaining a better understanding of the processes involved as well as lots of practice problems. It's great!

review for Algebra II workbook for dummies
this great book came in a very timely manner and great shape. The seller took great care. Thank you!

Excellent review resource
Needed to take Calculus in college 7 years after taking it in high school. Opened up the textbook a couple weeks before class to refresh my memory and I realized I didn't even remember what FOIL was. Picked up this book and the Trig workbook and worked through them and was completely up to speed by the time my class started. One major frustration was the numerous errors in the book, which made me triple-check my work a lot. However, the publisher has posted the errata on the downloads section of this book's page on their site.

No frills grind...
I'm almost done with the graphing chapter. I have 2 other "Dummies" workbooks (Geometry and Pre-Calc) and they are written in a much more animated style. It seems like the author Mary Jane Sterling did not care enough to really introduce the material in a way that might appeal to beginners, or those who buy "Dummies" books because they are a bit afraid of math. Instead, she dryly cuts into the definitions and examples, with about as much personality as I could get from any textbook. This is intimidating for those who already feel a little lost.The titles of the chapters, however, show some wit, probably to convince her publishers that she was writing a real "for dummies" book. But once you get into the math, she's very dry. Having said that, her syllabus seems quite rigorous and her problem sets are challenging and it seems she covers the important stuff.There's only so much you can put into this sort of book, which is supposed to be a combination review/workbook/lesson plan.The advantage of Dummies books is that they summarize the most important information, so you can get on with more advanced topics.After hitting a bit of a wall with "Pre-Calc for Dummies", I bought Algebra II for Dummies, to review the solving of quadratic inequalities (errors in Pre-Calc book).There are a couple errors in this book also, but it would be hard to make a perfect edition. Real textbooks excel in thoroughness and accuracy. But if you want a quicker, but comprehensive review, these Dummies workbooks are great.But Mary Jane Sterling's writing does not make me feel all that comfortable with the material, I must say.The human touch I get from Mark Ryan and Christopher Burger are missing here.

Great Review
This was a great review. I am about to enter college and have not done math in 12 years. This book really got me up to speed and should help out in my placement test. I would recommend this book for anybody who once knew this stuff but needs a refresher for sure. ... Read more

Product Description
Reflecting the latest New York State curriculum change, this brand-new addition to Barron??s Let??s Review series covers all topics prescribed by the New York State Board of Regents for the new Integrated Algebra Regents exam, which replaces the Math A Regents exam. This book stresses rapid learning, using many step-by-step demonstration examples, helpful diagrams, enlightening ??Math Fact?? summaries, and graphing calculator approaches.Fourteen chapters review the following topics: sets, operations, and algebraic language; linear equations and formulas; problem solving and technology;ratios, rates, and proportions; polynomials and factoring; rational expressions and equations; radicals and right triangles; area and volume; linear equations and graphing; functions, graphs, and models; systems of linear equations and inequalities; quadratic and exponential functions; statistics and visual representations of data; and counting and probability of compound events. Exercise sections within each chapter feature a large sampling of Regents-type multiple-choice and extended response questions, with answers at the back of the book.Students will find this book helpful when they need additional explanation and practice on a troublesome topic, or when they want to review specific topics before taking a classroom test or the Regents exam. Teachers will value it as a lesson-planning aid, and as a source of classroom exercises, homework problems, and test questions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Too early to rate this.
This looks like a fine book, but the real test will be whether it helps my daughter pass her math regents. Her teacher had us buy it, so hopefully it will be helpful.

Too Many Errors
I have found many errors in the answer guides, even one in an example! I emailed the company, but no response. I checked with other math teachers. They agree that the errors I found are, in fact, errors.It's annoying.I think the book is terrific, and the problems are excellent, but please do not think you're loosing your marbles if you don't agree with the answer guide!!!

Integrated Algebra
The author is hampered by the fact that the Integrated Algebra is
a brand new regents. There is no prior history. At the end of the
volume, there is a good sample exam which emulates the actual ones
to be administered in January and June of 2008. In short, don't
throw out your old Math A book because it contains more pertinent
regents practice questions.

A cursory review of the new volume disclosed that the content is
similar to the Math A. The sample exam is slightly more complicated
and theoretical.

Parts 2 and 3 of the new sample exam are significantly more complex
than the comparable Math A. I suspect that the initial
administrations of this new exam will produce a curve which reflects
the learning transfer in the new course.

The examples in the new Integrated Algebra are pertinent. There are plenty of illustrations on how to utilize the statistical calculator
to solve a plethora of problems-particularly in probability and statistics.

From a review of the sample exam, I believe that candidates should
endeavor to maximize their score on Part I of the exam which is
fairly comparable to the current Math A.

The new volume is replete with plenty of pertinent examples in
polynomials, number theory, equations, elementary trigonometry and
probability/statistical inference amongst many other topics. The
acquisition would be a good value for the price charged. Students
would benefit from this volume because it contains sufficient illustrations to amplify the concepts tested on the "live regents exam".
Practice is helpful because the new regents criteria requires a
minimum passing grade of 65 in all the regents subjects pertinent
to obtaining a diploma in NYS.

The new Integrated Algebra matter will be tested again in one form or another on the Collegiate SAT. ... Read more

Product Description
When it comes to pinpointing the stuff you really need to know, nobody does it better than CliffsNotes. This fast, effective tutorial helps you master core algebraic concepts -- from linear equations, relations and functions, and rational expressions to radicals, quadratic systems, and factoring polynomials -- and get the best possible grade.

At CliffsNotes, we're dedicated to helping you do your best, no matter how challenging the subject. Our authors are veteran teachers and talented writers who know how to cut to the chase -- and zero in on the essential information you need to succeed. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Great Remedial Help.
This is a great resource for supplemental help in Algebra II. As a parent and teacher, I'm using it, myself, to hone my knowledge of Algebraic concepts I've forgotten. More helpful than the student text. I love the way it breaks down a problem and shows step-by-step instructions, along w/ the correct answer.

Presentation is too fast for anyone but the lapsed master
If you were once able to master the principles of algebra II and need a quick refresher, then this book may satisfy your needs. However, if you have never mastered them and need to learn them, then you will find this book woefully inadequate. The coverage is:

*) Linear sentences in one variable
*) Segments, lines and inequalities
*) Linear sentences in two variables
*) Linear equations in three variables
*) Polynomial arithmetic
*) Factoring polynomials
*) Rational expressions
*) Relations and functions
*) Polynomial functions
*) Radicals and complex numbers
*) Quadratics in one variable
*) Conic sections
*) Quadratic systems
*) Exponential and logarithmic functions
*) Sequences and series
*) Additional topics
*) Word problems

All of this is done in 244 pages, so the presentation is very rapid and brief. There are short three to four question quizzes at the end of each chapter and a 29-question test at the end of the book. Brief answers to all questions are included.
In my opinion, this is not enough proficiency testing to allow the reader to adequately test their retention of the material. On the cover the blurb is "The essentials fast . . ." but in my opinion it is too fast to do anyone but the lapsed master any good.

Albebra II Cliff Quick Review
The book has some good notes but is not as complete as I was wishing.This particular vender took longer to get the book to me than any I have ever used on Amazon however.It took 3 full weeks.I have never waited that long.May have to go buy another book to help my daughter but this one was cheap enough.

Why I love CliffQuickReviews Algebra 2
I've read bunches of books on mathematics and I still find Cliff Quick Review mathematics series to be one of the most concise and thorough books in the genre!A must read whether you are in school or just looking to brush up on some of the stuff that you never really did grasp in school! I love it!

Great
Received quicker than expected. Quality was great, just as if I bought brand new from a bookstore. would definitly purchase thru them again. ... Read more

Product Description
A BETTER WAY TO COLLEGE ALGEBRA X-PERTISE

One of the most valuable tools acquired in a university education, college algebra is essential for courses from the sciences to computing, engineering to mathematics. It can help you do better on placement exams, even before college, and it's useful in solving the computations of daily life. Now anyone with an interest in college algebra can master it. In College Algebra Demystified, entertaining author and experienced teacher Rhonda Huettenmueller breaks college algebra down into manageable bites with practical examples, real data, and a new approach that banishes algebra's mystery.

With College Algebra Demystified, you master the subject one simple step at a time—at your own speed. Unlike most books on college algebra, general concepts are presented first—and the details follow. In order to make the process as clear and simple as possible, long computations are presented in a logical, layered progression with just one execution per step.

This fast and easy self-teaching course will help you:

• Perform better on placement exams
• Avoid confusion with detailed examples and solutions that help you every step of the way
• Conquer the coordinate plane, lines and intercepts, parabolas, and nonlinear equations
• Get comfortable with functions, graphs of functions, logarithms, exponents, and more
• Master aspects of algebra that will help you with calculus, geometry, trigonometry, physics, chemistry, computing, and engineering
• Reinforce learning and pinpoint weaknesses with questions at the end of every chapter, and a final at the end of the book

Customer Reviews (15)

Don't wast your money !
I gave these books a chance but they are really bad. I purchased another Demystified title as well and there is a lot left out in these books and there are incomplete examples leaving you to guess what the author means. I was very frustrated and sought out examples on line and found much better books, like a college algebra text book I ordered used, I would recommend the algebra for dummies books if you need to start completely from scratch in algebra. The examples and rules are very complete. I would like my money back from the author of the Demystified series.

Great book, get both of them if you're new to Algebra!
Originally, I couldn't figure out what the difference between this book and her other title, "Algebra, Demystified" was. I personally own this one, and examined the the other title in order to help out other shoppers.

The first title, Algebra Demystified : A Self Teaching Guide (Demystified) is simply what I would have called "Algebra I." Many people take it in high school, but many did not- I am one of those people! If you've never taken algebra, I recommend it.

Now for this book, College Algebra Demystified. It assumes you have already taken a basic Algebra I course, and right on page 1 it starts with a great big quadratic equation and shows you how to do the dreaded "Complete the Square." The great part was, the author broke it into little parts and I did it one step at a time. When I finished Chapter One, I was absolutely surprised that I now considered this form of equation solving to be EASY!!! I couldn't believe it. When I originally took an Algebra class years ago in college, I remember bursting into tears trying to figure it out. After her explanation and thorough practice sections, I am not breaking out into a sweat (literally).

My only negative feeling is that it doesn't seem to cover all aspects of everything I have found to be taught in my College Algebra class in college. Some classes require basic Trig to be taught, and if you're in that situation you'll have to look somewhere other than this book. For pure algebra and its concepts, this book (and the other one) make a great combo.

The best!Now anyone can learn college algebra!I love this book.
I use this to teach myself stuff I forgot, and refer to it when I tutor.These math 'demystified' books are awesome!!!

WHEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This book was very helpful. I was in a 5 week college math class online. Our ebook nor our hard copy book offered as much insight or help as this book. It was totally worth the money I spent on it to get me the "A" I needed!

Not good for self study
The only reason I gave 2 stars was because there are quite a few problems to work out. If you want supplemental problems for a College Algebra class to work then this book is right for you, if you are trying to use it as a self study guide then do not bother purchasing this book, I would recommend Schaum's Outline College Algebra. The author does not explain the steps in how problems are solved, if you are using this for self study, which the author proclaims, you do not have access to a instructor to ask your questions so adequet explanations should have been included. ... Read more

Product Description
Confusing Textbooks? Missed Lectures? Not Enough Time?

Fortunately for you, there's Schaum's Outlines. More than 40 million students have trusted Schaum's to help them succeed in the classroom and on exams. Schaum's is the key to faster learning and higher grades in every subject. Each Outline presents all the essential course information in an easy-to-follow, topic-by-topic format. You also get hundreds of examples, solved problems, and practice exercises to test your skills.

This Schaum's Outline gives you:

• Practice problems with full explanations that reinforce knowledge
• Coverage of the most up-to-date developments in your course field
• In-depth review of practices and applications

Fully compatible with your classroom text, Schaum's highlights all the important facts you need to know. Use Schaum's to shorten your study time-and get your best test scores!

Schaum's Outlines-Problem Solved. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Timeless
Grew up learning from this book. Ordered it for my girls so coach them on much needed skills and algebra problem solving.

Content Excellent - Kindle Format Not So Good
I have always enjoyed Shaum's Outlines and this is no different. Only problem I have is I got the Kindle edition. The old 1st gen Kindle is not so good for math. The graphics (most formulas) are too small to read. Fortunately it does look pretty good on PC Kindle.


I wonder how this looks on the newer generation Kindles?

Buy this book!!
I bought this book hoping for a thorough preparation for Calculus (minus trig). The book does not have trig, but goes into great depth on just about every other precalc subject, such as determinants and matrices, polynomial functions (very nice thorough section on Theory of Equations), conic sections, logs, exponents, binomial expansion, etc.I also tried using a couple textbooks, a "Dummies" Guide, and other ways to learn algebra.But THIS is the only book I ever needed!First, bear in mind the author, Murray Spiegel, is a great teacher!This book is much easier to learn from than the Precalc book
by Safire. Also, like with all Schaum's Outlines, the format is clear, clean, concise and without any frills.Compare this with a textbook, which throws so much unnecessary junk at you, you don't know what's important anymore. With Schaum's, you always know where you stand with each topic, and each chapter.Also, with Schaum's you get TONS of examples, solved problems, and if that isn't enough, Supplementary problems.Also, many of the problems include rigorous mathematical proofs (such as the Inequalities section). I did the Inequalities proofs and learned a lot about how math really works, and how equations are derived!Also, you cannot get much better than the thoroughness of Schaum's.The determinants section is rigorous and starts with Cramer's Rule, and continues through solving 3rd and 4th and 5th order determinants using
minors, and applying theorems to simplify the determinant.When you get done with any section, you will understand math!
This book is a reference I will keep for life!I have full confidence in Schaum's and swear by them.I also have the Trigonometry Schaum's and PreCalc (the Precalc is a bonus--it includes a Trig section and more advanced approaches than the College Algebra text does on the same topics, and includes partial fractions, polar coordinates, vectors).

Good reference
I didn't get much use out of it as a learning tool, but it is a good reference. Any time I find myself needing to remember how to solve a system or work with roots, the answer is easy to locate.

It's a great study guide to help you brush up on earlier concepts while working with a book, or something online like the videos at Khan Academy or the various math pages on youtube.

algebra review
I thought this is an excellent book.I will be using it to tutor students having problems with algebra.I did not like yourr web site however, I found it to be very user unfriendly ... Read more

Product Description
Product DetailsReading level: Young AdultPaperback: 503 pagesPublisher: Pearson Prentice Hall; Workbook edition (April 28, 2006)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0131657186ISBN-13: 978-0131657182Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.3 x 1.1 inchesShipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Rockymountaintextbooks was less than peak
This book was in extremely bad condition and took a very long time.This "Rocky" has been knocked out!

Math book
The shipper described the item well. It was not in good condition, but better than I had expected. It was very inexpensive only about $2.00 plus shipping. I think the shipper was very fair with his price, and it was delivered quickly. I would use him/her again.

Seller didn't ship item!
I will be filing a claim in 2 days as the seller didn't bother to ship the book.My student has been in school for almost a month now and has to keep copying the math teacher's book as we still haven't received the book we ordered 3 weeks ago.

Algebra 1
I purchased the Algerbra 1 book and did not realize that each state had a specific state edition.When I received the book, it was the correct one, but at the top of the book it specified that it was for the state of Indiana.I reside in California.

The sellers did place an insert stating that "it is exactly identical to the national edition.It has every page and every work in exactly the same place!All pages in state and national editions are indentically numbered.State editionas have a few extra pages numbered INI-IN20 or so.There are a seperate index to the state competence test.These are in addition to the normal pages.

I hope this will be what my son needs for his class.I guess I am just nervous since this is the first time that I am purchasing my son's text book through Amazon.

If this works out, I will be purchasing all my books through Amazon.

Thanks for asking for me to review this.

Better than my college text
I have not worked all the way through this book with my child yet. But after flipping through it to check out concepts that my college Algebra text flubbed, I can tell you this book does a pretty good job of explaining things like multiplying matrices. I bought this book after seeing it was one recommended by Prof. Sellers of PSU, who did the new Algebra I course for The Teaching Company Great Courses series. We're using the two together and think it's a good combo. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Just What I Ordered
The book arrived in a timely manner and in excellent condition! I am very satisfied!

My order it's what I expected and was shipped fast
The book that I ordered was a used book, and it was in good condition. The condition of the book was what the seller described. I recieved it earlier than it was promised.

Algebra Book
This was a good real for a used book. It had very few writing in it for being used. It was in very good condition.It took about 2 to 3 days for the book to arrive, it was very quick. I recommend this, I would trust having this company..i mean buying from this book salescompany again. I needed this book for a math placement test fo highschool and it really helped me because , now im in geometry in 9th grade.

One of the Best Textbooks for Algebgra 1
This books provides your student with detailed examples to properly complete the problems listed in the book. I recommend this book for anyone who wants to learn Algebra 1.

From a teacher's perspective:Best Algebra Book in Print
I've been teaching math for 10 years and tutoring longer.Twice I've been awarded teacher of the year and I've been very involved in determining the accreditation of other high schools.I've seen a lot of algebra texts.This is the best text book from which I have ever taught.It gives excellent explanation for the student and the ancillary materials available to the teacher are great.It's a total winner.No complaints.I believe in this book so much that I just purchased a class set, with my own funds, for my son's private school.
Mr D ... Read more