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.

Includes index.

Starting off with the basics. Assembling your tools ; Assigning signs : positive and negative numbers ; Figuring out fractions and dealing with decimals ; Exploring exponents and raising radicals ; Doing operations in order and checking your answers -- Figuring out factoring. Working with numbers in their prime ; Sharing the fun : distribution ; Getting to first base with factoring ; Getting the second degree ; Factoring special cases -- Working equations. Establishing ground rules for solving equations ; Solving linear equations ; Taking a crack at quadratic equations ; Distinguishing equations with distinctive powers ; Rectifying inequalities -- Applying algebra. Taking measure with formulas ; Formulating for profit and pleasure ; Sorting out story problems ; Going visual : graphing ; Lining up graphs of lines -- The part of tens. The ten best ways to void pitfalls ; The ten most famous equations.