Need some Pre-Calculus books recommendation

In summary, the conversation discusses the best options for refreshing pre-calculus skills. One option is the "Pre-Calculus Workbook for Dummies 2nd edition," but the group agrees that there are better options such as the online ALEKS pre-calculus course and textbooks like "Precalculus: A Right Triangle Approach" by Lial/Hornsby and "Fundamentals of Freshman Mathematics" by Allendoerfer/Oakley. The recommended books for geometry are "Principles of Mathematics" by Bacte, "Jacobs Geometry," and "Edwin E. Moise Geometry."
  • #1
Donello
16
3
Hi,I am starting my EE degree next year in October and need some refreshment for Pre-calculus.

I am considering the book "Pre-Calculus workbook for dummies 2nd edition".
What do you think about it? Any better choices ?
 
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  • #2
I can think of no better approach than the online ALEKS pre-calculus course. It is smart enough to identify your strengths and weaknesses and give you more practice in the areas you need it most.
 
  • #3
I would avoid the "For Dummies" series of books, there are much better options out there (though admittedly textbooks will cost you a lot more).

I used Precalculus: A Right Triangle Approach by Lial/Hornsby, and it had great coverage of material and hundreds of exercises for every section. It also explains how many of the sections will be applicable to calculus.

I have heard nothing but good things about the ALEKS pre-calculus course Dr. Courtney referred to as well.
 
  • #4
"fundamentals of freshman mathematics" by Allendoerfer/Oakley has a clear and informative presentation of the pre-calculus and some topics of calculus. Another good book is "Basic Mathematics" by Serge Lang and "Precalculus in a Nutshell" by G. Simmons.
 
  • #5
Oakley is a good choice, is the book you recommended Bacte, the same as Principles Of Mathematics? I own a copy of Principles.

For geometry, which in a calculus class, which typically consist of Stewart. Geometry is not necessarily needed, just the results of the proofs. Usually ratios etc.

But if you want to learn geometry, I would recommended Jacobs Geometry and Edwin E. Moise Geometry. Both are great books, Jacobs is a lot easier than Moise, but Moise makes the subject come alive.
 

1. What are some good pre-calculus books for beginners?

Some good pre-calculus books for beginners include "Pre-Calculus for Dummies" by Mary Jane Sterling, "Barron's E-Z Pre-Calculus" by Lawrence S. Leff, and "Pre-Calculus Demystified" by Rhonda Huettenmueller.

2. Are there any pre-calculus books that focus on visual learning?

Yes, there are several pre-calculus books that use visual aids to help students understand the concepts better. Some examples are "Calculus: Early Transcendentals" by James Stewart, "Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus" by James Stewart, and "Precalculus with Limits" by Ron Larson.

3. Are there any pre-calculus books with practice problems and solutions?

Yes, many pre-calculus books come with practice problems and solutions to help students practice and apply the concepts they have learned. Some examples include "Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus" by James Stewart, "Precalculus: A Concise Course" by Ron Larson, and "Pre-Calculus: A Self-Teaching Guide" by Steve Slavin.

4. Can you recommend a pre-calculus book with real-life applications?

Yes, there are several pre-calculus books that include real-life applications to help students see the practical uses of the concepts they are learning. Some examples are "Calculus: Early Transcendentals" by James Stewart, "Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus" by James Stewart, and "Precalculus with Limits" by Ron Larson.

5. What is the best pre-calculus book for self-study?

The best pre-calculus book for self-study may vary depending on the individual's learning style and needs. Some popular options for self-study include "Calculus: Early Transcendentals" by James Stewart, "Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus" by James Stewart, and "Pre-Calculus: A Self-Teaching Guide" by Steve Slavin.

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