Preface

Volume I builds the language of college algebra: simplifying expressions, solving linear and quadratic equations, graphing relationships, and working with polynomials, rationals, and radicals. Each idea connects to the next so precalculus and calculus rest on skills you can execute without guessing.

Fourteen chapters follow the ForgEd manuscript arc: number systems and notation, linear models, inequalities and graphing, systems, exponents and polynomials, factoring, rational and radical equations, quadratics, functions, exponentials and logarithms, and a bridge to sequences and series. Read each section, use the bullet summaries as quick checks, then take the ten-question section quiz before moving on.

Work problems on paper as you read — algebra is procedural fluency plus reasoning. This course is general mathematics education; verify any grade-critical work with your instructor or institution.