Essentials of College Algebra by Lial, Hornsby, and Schneider, gives readers a solid foundation in the basic functions of college algebra and their graphs, starting with a strong review of intermediate algebra concepts and ending with an introduction to systems and matrices. This brief version of the College Algebra, Tenth Edition has been specifically designed to provide a more compact and less expensive book for courses that do not include the more advanced topics covered in the longer book. Focused on helping readers develop both the conceptual understanding and the analytical skills necessary to experience success in mathematics, the authors present each mathematical topic in this text using a carefully developed learning system to actively engage students in the learning process. The book addresses the diverse needs of today's students through a clear design, current figures and graphs, helpful features, careful explanations of topics, and a comprehensive package of available supplements and study aids.

Bob Blitzer has inspired thousands of students with his engaging approach to mathematics, making this beloved series the #1 in the market. Blitzer draws on his unique background in mathematics and behavioral science to present the full scope of mathematics with vivid applications in real-life situations. Students stay engaged because Blitzer often uses pop-culture and up-to-date references to connect math to students' lives, showing that their world is profoundly mathematical.

For courses in College Algebra. This book takes the same approach as the regular Blitzer College Algebra 3e version, but has been condensed by deleting the last 3 chapters (Chapter 6 Matrices and Determinants, Chapter 7 Conic Sections and Analytic Geometry, and Chapter 8 Sequences, Induction, and Probability). This text explores math the way it evolved: by describing real problems and how math explains them. It is interesting, lively (with applications you won't see in any other math book), and exceedingly clear. Blitzer's philosophy: present the full scope of mathematics, while always (1) engaging the student by opening their minds to learning (2) keeping the student engaged on every page (3) explaining ideas directly, simply, and clearly. Students are strongly supported by a consistent pedagogical framework. A "See it, Hear it, Try it?" format consistently walks students through each and every example in just the same way that an instructor would teach this example in class. Blitzer liberally inserts voice balloons and annotations throughout the text helping clarify the more difficult concepts for students.