Intermediate Algebra is designed to provide your students with the algebra background needed for further college-level mathematics courses. The unifying theme of this text is the development of the skills necessary for solving equations and inequalities, followed by the application of those skills to solving applied problems. The primary goal in writing the third edition of Intermediate Algebra has been to retain the features that made the second edition so successful, while incorporating the comments and suggestions of second-edition users. Many new features have been provided that will help instructors reach the goals that they have set for their students. As always, the author endeavors to write texts that students can read, understand, and enjoy, while gaining confidence in their ability to use mathematics.