Author Description

The fifth edition of INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA retains the effectively integrated pedagogical format and unsurpassed accuracy of the previous editions while providing consistent motivation for the development of good problem-solving skills. Ideal for intermediate algebra lecture courses, this bestselling text, from proven mathematics author Pat McKeague, features his trademark clear, accessible writing style and provides a solid foundation for further studies in mathematics. Consistent, practical chapter organization helps students develop successful study habits. The continuity of mathematics is demonstrated by the linking of topics throughout the text and series. Features: * Consistent chapter pedagogy includes: a Chapter Opener with Introduction: Overview and Study Skills: boxed Definitions, Strategies and Rules: Examples/Solutions: Calculator Notes (for graphing calculators): Problems: Chapter Summary: Common Mistakes: Review Problems: Chapter Test: and Research Project. * Chapter Overviews introduce new material and show the connection to previously learned material. Chapter Summaries list properties and definitions from the chapter, provide warnings against common miskakes, and give illustrative examples for each topic summarized. * To stimulate interest, real-world applications are included in most sections, providing opportunities for problem solving and illustrating the usefulness of mathematical skills. * Section problem sets contain drill problems of progressive difficulty, "Applying the Concepts" exercises requiring written response, numerous applications, and "One Step Further" exercises to challenge students. Optional graphing calculator exercises are provided to be used at the discretion of the instructor and student. Review Problems cover material from previous chapters that is needed for understanding topics in the next section and continually reinforce skills. * Each pair of consecutive problems in the exercise sets is similar, with answers to odd-numbered problems provided in the back of the book. This arrangment lets students check their work against answered problems, then try the even-numbered problems on their own. * All four operations with fractions are covered early, setting the stage for fractions in equations and inequalities throughout the rest of the book. New to this edition: * New four-color design enhances the overall presentation and makes graphs easier to read and interpret.