Helpful Learning ObjectivesWe begin each section with clearly stated, numbered
objectives, and the included material is directly keyed to these objectives so that students
and instructors know exactly what is covered in each section. (See pages 2 and 130.)
Popular Cautions and NotesOne of the most popular features of previous
editions, we include information marked and NOTEto warn students
about common errors and emphasize important ideas throughout the exposition. The
updated text design makes them easy to spot. (See pages 2 and 56.)
Comprehensive ExamplesThe new edition of this text features a multitude of
step-by-step, worked-out examples that include pedagogical color, helpful side com-
ments, and special pointers. We give increased attention to checking example
solutions—more checks, designated using a special CHECKtag, are included than in
past editions. (See pages 87 and 396.)
More PointersWell received by both students and instructors in the previous edi-
tion, we incorporate more pointers in examples and discussions throughout this
edition of the text. They provide students with important on-the-spot reminders and
warnings about common pitfalls. (See pages 204 and 345.)
Updated Figures, Photos, and Hand-Drawn Graphs Today’s students are
more visually oriented than ever. As a result, we have made a concerted effort to in-
clude appealing mathematical figures, diagrams, tables, and graphs, including a
“hand-drawn” style of graphs, whenever possible. (See pages 182 and 188.) Many of
the graphs also use a style similar to that seen by students in today’s print and elec-
tronic media. We have incorporated new photos to accompany applications in exam-
ples and exercises. (See pages 109 and 593.)
Relevant Real-Life ApplicationsWe include many new or updated applications
from fields such as business, pop culture, sports, technology, and the life sciences
that show the relevance of algebra to daily life. (See pages 277 and 409.)
Emphasis on Problem-SolvingWe introduce our six-step problem-solving
method in Chapter 2 and integrate it throughout the text. The six steps, Read, Assign
a Variable, Write an Equation, Solve, State the Answer,and Check,are emphasized
in boldface type and repeated in examples and exercises to reinforce the problem-
solving process for students. (See pages 108 and 272.) We also provide students with
boxes that feature helpful problem-solving tips and
strategies. (See pages 139 and 401.)
ConnectionsWe include these to give students another avenue for making connec-
tions to the real world, graphing technology, or other mathematical concepts, as well
as to provide historical background and thought-provoking questions for writing,
class discussion, or group work. (See pages 195 and 315.)
Ample and Varied Exercise SetsOne of the most commonly mentioned strengths
of this text is its exercise sets. We include a wealth of exercises to provide students
with opportunities to practice, apply, connect, review, and extend the algebraic con-
cepts and skills they are learning. We also incorporate numerous illustrations, tables,
graphs, and photos to help students visualize the problems they are solving. Problem
types include writing , graphing calculator , multiple-choice, true/false, matching,
and fill-in-the-blank problems, as well as the following:
NConcept Checkexercises facilitate students’ mathematical thinking and concep-
tual understanding. (See pages 96 and 196.)Preface xiiiCAUTIONPROBLEM-SOLVING HINT