preface
The third edition of College Algebra is being published at the beginning of a new
era in the teaching of mathematics in our colleges and universities. Educators agree
that this decade will see major changes in the way mathematics is taught critical
thinking will be nurtured， rote learning will be de-emphasized， and mathematical
comprehension will be fostered by increased classroom use of electronic computers
and calculators. In revising our textbook， we have tried to provide a measured
response to these trends while continuing to offer students a straightforward， read-
able book.
Prerequisites
In writing and revising this textbook， we had in mind a typical reader with the equiv-
alent of two years of college-preparatory mathematics in algebra and plane geome-
try， or one who has takena college-level course in introductory algebra. Determined
students with less preparation should be able to use the textbook successfully， par-
ticularly if they supplement it with the accompanying Student Guide with Solutions.
Presentation
Topics are presented in brief sections that develop logically from basic to more
advanced skills and concepts. Motivation for new ideas is provided by showing their
application in real-world situations. Numerous illustrative examples are worked out
in detail. When appropriate， specific problem-solving procedures are given.
Problems
Problems at the end of each section begin with simple drill-type exercises to build
student confidence. A gradual progression to more advanced problems invites
students to work to the best of their abilities.
Odd-numbered problems Many of the odd-numbered problems， particularly those
at the beginning of each problem set， are similar in scope to the worked-out exam-
ples in the text. Answers to most of these problems， with appropriate graphs， are
given in the back of the book. In general， odd-numbered problems can be assigned
Jor homework with an expectation of success by most students.
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