The pain-free way to ace Algebra I

Does the word polynomial make your hair stand on end? Let this friendly guide show you the easy way to tackle algebra. You'll get plain-English explanations of the basics — and the tougher stuff — in terms you can understand. Whether you want to brush up on your math skills or help your children with their homework, this book gives you power — to the nth degree.

It's all about numbers — get the lowdown on numbers — rational and irrational, integers, and positive and negative

Factor in the fun — discover the easy way to figure out working with prime numbers, factoring, and distributing

Don't hate, equate! — get a handle on the most common equations you'll encounter in algebra, from basic linear problems to the quadratic formula and everything in between

Resolve to solve — learn how to solve linear and quadratic equations, keep equations balanced, and check your work

Put it to use — find out how to apply algebra to tackle measurements, formulas, story problems, and graphs

Open the book and find:

-Plain-English explanations of "algebra speak"

-How to figure out fractions and deal with decimals

-Guidance on working with exponents and radicals

-The rules of divisibility

-The standard quadratic expression

-When to use FOIL and unFOIL

-Special cases for factoring

-The ground rules for solving equations

-How to put the Pythagorean theorem to work

Learn to:

-Understand algebra

-Solve complex problems

-Find the solution every time

-Increase your understanding of how algebra works

Factor fearlessly, conquer the quadratic formula, and solve linear equations

There's no doubt that algebra can be easy to some while extremely challenging to others. If you're vexed by variables, Algebra I For Dummies, 2nd Edition provides the plain-English, easy-to-follow guidance you need to get the right solution every time!

Now with 25% new and revised content, this easy-to-understand reference not only explains algebra in terms you can understand, but it also gives you the necessary tools to solve complex problems with confidence. You'll understand how to factor fearlessly, conquer the quadratic formula, and solve linear equations.

-Includes revised and updated examples and practice problems

-Provides explanations and practical examples that mirror today's teaching methods

-Other titles by Sterling: Algebra II For Dummies and Algebra Workbook For Dummies

Whether you're currently enrolled in a high school or college algebra course or are just looking to brush-up your skills, Algebra I For Dummies, 2nd Edition gives you friendly and comprehensible guidance on this often difficult-to-grasp subject.