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ix
PREFACE
As you know, in order to build a tall building, you need to start with a strong
foundation. It is also true in mastering mathematics that you need to start
with a strong foundation. This book presents the basic topics in arithmetic
and introductory algebra in a logical, easy-to-read format. This book can be
used as an independent study course or as a supplement to a pre-algebra
course.
To learn mathematics, you must know the vocabulary, understand the
rules and procedures, and be able to apply these rules and procedures to
mathematical problems in order to solve them. This book is written in a
style that will help you with learning. Important terms have been boldfaced,
and important rules and procedures have been italicized. Basic facts and
helpful suggestions can be found inMath Notes. Each section has several
worked-out examples showing you how to use the rules and procedures. Each
section also contains several practice problems for you to work out to see if
you understand the concepts. The correct answers are provided immediately
after the problems so that you can see if you have solved them correctly. At
the end of each chapter is a 20-question multiple-choice quiz. If you answer
most of the problems correctly, you can move on to the next chapter. If not,
please repeat the chapter. Make sure that you do not look at the answer
before you have attempted to solve the problem.
Even if you know some or all of the material in the chapter, it is best to
work through the chapter in order to review the material. The little extra
effort will be a great help when you encounter the more difficult material
later. After you complete the entire book, you can take the 100-question final
exam and determine your level of competence.
Included in this book is a special section entitled ‘‘Overcoming Math
Anxiety.’’ The author has used it in his workshops for college students
who have math anxiety. It consists of three parts. Part 1 explains the nature
and some causes of math anxiety. Part 2 explains some techniques that willCopyright © 200 4 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Click here for terms of use.