Painless Algebra

by Lynette Long

For students who are intimidated by all forms of math, here is a set of easy steps that lead to an understanding of elementary algebra. The author defines all terms, points out potential pitfalls in algebraic calculation, and makes problem solving a fun activity. New in this edition are painless approaches to understanding and graphing linear equations, solving systems of linear inequalities, and graphing quadratic equations.

Barron’s popular Painless Series of study guides for middle school and high school students offer a lighthearted, often humorous approach to their subjects, transforming details that might once have seemed boring or difficult into a series of interesting and mentally challenging ideas. Most titles in the series feature many fun-to-solve “Brain Tickler” problems with answers at the end of each chapter.

Genres: Mathematics, Nonfiction, Reference, School, Education

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great learning tool. Can’t say I enjoyed it, but it was painless and full of good lessons.

[Sharondyck · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is quite easy to follow, with examples one can try, to make sure they are understanding the concepts. However, algebra has never been painless for me, and it's still not, even after reading this book. So I don't know about this "painless" claim.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I already knew algebra, but I went through this book to see if it would be useful to some of my students who are currently taking Algebra and it does explain things super simply. It doesn't hit every single aspect, but it could be a useful classroom tool.

[Natalie Waddell-Rutter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found that this book makes such an effort to be painless that the student doesn't get enough practice on the concepts. There's lots of silly drawings and puns and it certainly doesn't look like a typical textbook. It's solid math, and covers a wide variety of basic algebra topics. However, I think it's best used as a quick refresher of algebra or an introduction, with further details and practice provided in another book.

[Vance J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw this book in a learning lab when I was student teaching, and thought the kids using it got a lot out of it. I teach physics at the HS level now, and many of my students seem to struggle with basic algebra. I was looking for some themes to reinforce with them, and in that sense I think this book is helpful. Good examples, basic blocking and tackling.

[Graham Bates · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent, easy-to-read study guide for Algebra. Long does a great job of introducing complicated concepts using simple language. The steps to solve are set up nicely and she uses technical jargon only after putting them into plain English. Is almost equal to Big, Fat Notebook though it lacks color.

[Maya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I honestly don’t remember when I started this book as I was using it to review Algebra. It has a lot of topics and exercises with answers. Most of the topics were well explained but some were a little tough.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know this book contains errata. It would certainly be helpful to have them ahead of time. Unfortunately, I can’t find an online link to this information.

Anybody?

[Barn · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was fun to refresh my memory of Algebra 1. Good touch point to make sure my foundation was solid before moving on to bigger and better things.

[Kimberly Burnam · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book got me through algebra... it was my best friend for five months!

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I used this book to help me break down algebra for tutoring. The process they take you through is in easy, bite-size chunks and helped the 6th graders I tutor immensely!

[Tiffany]

I am working on brushing up on Algebra so I can retake the exam at college to place in a higher class.

[Ckrippner · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you need to brush up on your skills or tutor someone, this is a MUST!

[Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a bit confusing at parts. I recommend this to Mrs. Gerhing!

[Rene · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am reading this to refresh my memory! I have a middle schooler with lots of homework questions!

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great. Only wish that the "Brain Ticklers" had work throughs as well as the final answer.

[Krissi Charsha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful

[William · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would def recommend for anyone struggling with the subject. Hits all the major points very smoothly. As a comprehensive review material, it leaves out a lot of detail.

[Adele Huffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will buy every book in this series as I take math classes. Really makes it painless. I don't know how they do it.

[Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun read.

[Bambi]

ok

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Algebra book for people like me who are so dyscalculic.

[Jim Grasley · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview to guide the reader through the steps of working out algebra problems.

[Kimber Buelow- 561 Bookgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tips for algebra. Clear and focused.