Revisiting Algebra / Any Good Books to Help Master it?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the challenges faced in mastering algebra, particularly for students engaged in intermediate math classes like calculus and differential equations. Users express a need for resources that can help refresh and perfect their algebra skills, as mistakes in this area hinder their performance. Recommendations include the book "Algebra" by Gelfand, which emphasizes intuition and understanding over rote memorization, as well as "Trigonometry" by Gelfand for those needing a better grasp of trigonometric concepts. The importance of practice through exercises is highlighted as essential for mastery. Overall, the conversation underscores the necessity of solidifying algebra foundations to succeed in higher-level mathematics.
CarbonWater
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I've been doing the intermediate math classes like calculus and differential equations. I'm doing okay, but not great. What holds me back getting a 100% in these classes is almost always the algebra. I make stupid algebra mistakes and honestly am not completely comfortable with some concepts.

Does anyone know of any books or guides or approaches that are tailored to people trying to refresh / perfect their algebra? I feel like I almost need to approach it a different way to master it at this point.
 
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CarbonWater said:
I've been doing the intermediate math classes like calculus and differential equations. I'm doing okay, but not great. What holds me back getting a 100% in these classes is almost always the algebra. I make stupid algebra mistakes and honestly am not completely comfortable with some concepts.

Does anyone know of any books or guides or approaches that are tailored to people trying to refresh / perfect their algebra? I feel like I almost need to approach it a different way to master it at this point.

Are you talking about algebra as in arithmetic or algebra as in group-theory based algebra?
 
chiro said:
Are you talking about algebra as in arithmetic or algebra as in group-theory based algebra?

Considering the fact that he is talking about algebra used calculus of diff. equations, I would say that it's likely to be elementary algebra. In that case, I highly recommend Algebra, Gelfand. Also, if you're looking for a better intuition of trigonometry, try Trigonometry, Gelfand.

The above two books really focus on intuition and understanding as opposed to memorizing algorithms, and are also very challenging.
 
Make a lot of exercises. It's the only way to master these things!
 
DivisionByZro said:
Considering the fact that he is talking about algebra used calculus of diff. equations, I would say that it's likely to be elementary algebra. In that case, I highly recommend Algebra, Gelfand. Also, if you're looking for a better intuition of trigonometry, try Trigonometry, Gelfand.

The above two books really focus on intuition and understanding as opposed to memorizing algorithms, and are also very challenging.

Thanks for the suggestion and you were correct about which type of algebra I'm talking about.
 
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