U Can: Algebra I For Dummies

Mary Jane Sterling taught algebra at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, for 35 years.

Introduction 1 Part I Getting Started with Algebra I 5 chapter 1: Assembling Your Tools 7 chapter 2: Deciphering Signs in Expressions 19 chapter 3: Incorporating Algebraic Properties 35 chapter 4: Making Fractions and Decimals Behave 47 chapter 5: Exploring Exponents 77 chapter 6: Taming Rampaging Radicals 89 chapter 7: Simplifying Algebraic Expressions 103 Part II Changing the Format of Expressions 121 chapter 8: Working with Numbers in Their Prime 123 chapter 9: Specializing in Multiplication Matters 139 chapter 10: Dividing the Long Way to Simplify Algebraic Expressions 161 chapter 11: Figuring on Factoring 171 chapter 12: Taking the Bite out of Binomial Factoring 185 chapter 13: Factoring Trinomials and Special Polynomials 195 Part III Sleuthing For Solutions of Equations 221 chapter 14: Establishing Ground Rules for Solving Equations 223 chapter 15: Lining Up Linear Equations 237 chapter 16: Muscling Up to Quadratic Equations 265 chapter 17: Yielding to Higher Powers 289 chapter 18: Reeling in Radical and Absolute Value Equations 315 chapter 19: Getting Even with Inequalities 329 Part IV Solving Story Problems and Skething Graphs 349 chapter 20: Facing Up to Formulas 351 chapter 21: Making Formulas Work in Basic Story Problems 377 chapter 22: Relating Values in Story Problems 401 chapter 23: Measuring Up with Quality and Quantity Story Problems 411 chapter 24: Getting a Handle on Graphing 425 chapter 25: Extending the Graphing Horizon 451 Part V The Part of Tens 475 chapter 26: Ten Common Errors That Get Noticed 477 chapter 27: Ten Quick Tips to Make Algebra a Breeze 483 Index 489