Wanting to study Functions from scratch for my Calculus preparation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the suitability of the textbook "Precalculus" by James Stewart for learning functions from scratch, particularly in preparation for calculus. Participants explore the content of the book, the types of functions covered, and alternatives for studying algebra and precalculus concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire whether "Precalculus" by James Stewart teaches functions from the beginning.
  • Others seek clarification on the specific types of functions the original poster is interested in, such as trigonometric or exponential functions.
  • One participant expresses a desire to revise algebra 1 and 2 before moving on to new mathematics, indicating a reluctance to purchase new textbooks.
  • Another participant confirms that chapter 2 of the textbook covers functions from the beginning, which is seen as a positive aspect.
  • Some participants suggest using online resources or platforms like Aleks to supplement learning.
  • There is a mention of a free edX course that could provide access to precalculus materials.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that "Precalculus" by James Stewart covers functions from the beginning, but there is no consensus on whether it is the best resource for the original poster's needs. Multiple views on alternative resources and study methods are presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of confidence in their mathematical abilities and the effectiveness of different learning resources, indicating a need for tailored approaches based on individual learning styles.

mark2142
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Does Precalculus by James Stewart teaches function from scratch ?
 
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Can you say more about what you are looking for in a Precalculus textbook? What kind of functions?

If you search on the textbook at Amazon, you can use their "Look Inside" feature to view the Table of Contents and other brief summaries of the content:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1305071751/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
Function that is taught in algebra I and II I suppose.
 
Like trig functions, exponential functions, infinite series, and similar?

Did you try the "Look Inside" feature at Amazon yet?
 
Actually I want to revise algebra 1 and 2 and move forward. Learn new maths. But I don’t want to buy new book. I was thinking if this book will do the job for a while?
(I am tired of buying books)
 
mark2142 said:
Does Precalculus by James Stewart teaches function from scratch ?
Mark,

you have asked many pre-calculus questions in regards topics and books. The best course of action is to read and work through the pre-calculus book...
 
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mark2142 said:
Does Precalculus by James Stewart teaches function from scratch ?
Yes, chapter 2 covers functions from the beginning
 
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MidgetDwarf said:
Mark,

you have asked many pre-calculus questions in regards topics and books. The best course of action is to read and work through the pre-calculus book...
But I asked one question regarding books.
Muu9 said:
Yes, chapter 2 covers functions from the beginning
That’s a relief.
I prepare myself that now I’ll complete this or that book and will pursue my journey to learn science. I start the book and then I leave because the math is above my level. So I go buying new book. And then this cycle repeats. I start and then I leave. It has happened a lot. I think I have to learn and revise maths from beginning if I want to excel in physics. Everywhere there is calculus and I need to understand this calculus if I want to understand any physics topic. For that I have to go through Precalculus first. And for learning that I need to go through algebra 1 and 2. It’s a relief that algebra 1 and 2 are covered in Precalculus.
Thanks.
 
Last edited:
  • #10
mark2142 said:
But I asked one question regarding books.

That’s a relief.
I prepare myself that now I’ll complete this or that book and will pursue my journey to learn science. I start the book and then I leave because the math is above my level. So I go buying new book. And then this cycle repeats. I start and then I leave. It has happened a lot. I think I have to learn and revise maths from beginning if I want to excel in physics. Everywhere there is calculus and I need to understand this calculus if I want to understand any physics topic. For that I have to go through Precalculus first. And for learning that I need to go through algebra 1 and 2. It’s a relief that algebra 1 and 2 are covered in Precalculus.
Thanks.
maybe you can benefit by using something like Aleks, and working through your book.
 
  • #11
MidgetDwarf said:
maybe you can benefit by using something like Aleks, and working through your book.
It usually costs money, but you can get access to it for free through this edx course: https://www.edx.org/course/precalculus
 

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