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Quadratic Equations
How to Use FOIL to Distribute Two Binomials (Video)
In algebra, variables are placeholder letters (capitalized and lowercase) that represent the unknown, or what you're solving for. This video shows you what variables can look like and what they mean. Understanding variables help make algebra easier for you. [more…]
Quadratic Equations
How to Use UnFOIL to Factor Quadratic Equations (Video)
Using the unFOIL method to factor quadratic equations into two binomials requires many steps. Prime factorization and order of decreasing powers are two parts of the unFOIL method, which helps you solve for quadratic equations. Remember that FOIL stands for first, outer, inner, and last. [more…]
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Algebra Basics
How to Use the Order of Operations
Follow the order of operations with each algebra problem you solve. The order of operations in algebra is important if you want to find the correct answer. You first work through any grouping symbols, [more…]
Quadratics in Algebra
Standard Equations of Algebraic Conics
Conics are curved algebraic forms that come from slicing a cone with a plane. Use these equations to graph algebraic conics, such as circles, ellipses, parabolas, and hyperbolas: [more…]
Linear Equations in Algebra
Cramer’s Rule for Linear Algebra
Named for Gabriel Cramer, Cramer’s Rule provides a solution for a system of two linear algebraic equations in terms of determinants — the numbers associated with a specific, square matrix. [more…]
Counting Techniques
Algebraic Permutations and Combinations
In algebra, you use permutations to count the number of subsets of a larger set. Use permutations when order is necessary. With combinations, you can count the number of subsets when order doesn't matter [more…]
Algebra Basics
Eight Basic Algebraic Curves
Algebra is all about graphing relationships, and the curve is one of the most basic shapes used. Here's a look at eight of the most frequently used graphs. [more…]
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Right Triangles and Trig Functions for Pre-Calculus
If you’re studying pre-calculus, you’re going to encounter triangles, and certainly the Pythagorean theorem. The theorem and how it applies to special right triangles are set out here: [more…]
How to Format Interval Notation in Pre-Calculus
In pre-calculus you deal with inequalities and you use interval notation to express the solution set to an inequality. The following formulas show how to format solution sets in interval notation. [more…]
Absolute Value Formulas for Pre-Calculus
Even though you’re involved with pre-calculus, you remember your old love, algebra, and that fact that absolute values then usually had two possible solutions. Now that you’re with pre-calculus, you realize [more…]
Trig Identities for Pre-Calculus
Of course you use trigonometry, commonly called trig, in pre-calculus. And you use trig identities as constants throughout an equation to help you solve problems. The always-true, never-changing trig identities [more…]
The Basics of Solving Algebra I Equations
One of the most common goals in algebra I is solve an equation. Solving an equation means to identify the number or numbers you can replace the variable with to make a true statement. You'll find factoring [more…]
Factoring in Algebra I
Factoring algebraic expressions is one of the most important techniques you need to practice. Not much else can be done in terms of solving equations, graphing functions and conics, and working on math [more…]
1,001 Algebra I Practice Problems For Dummies Cheat Sheet
Algebra problems are easier to solve when you know the rules and formulas. Unlike other subjects where you can just read or listen and absorb the information sufficiently, math takes practice. The only [more…]
How to Use Prime Factorization on Composite Numbers
In algebra, composite numbers can be broken into prime numbers by prime factorization. You can solve for prime factors without a calculator or list of primes. This video shows how to use prime factorization [more…]
How to Solve Simple Linear Equations in Algebra
Solving linear equations in algebra is done with multiplication, division, or reciprocals. Using reciprocals, or multiplicative inverse, as well as multiplying and dividing with certain formulas, you can [more…]
How to Add and Subtract Fractions in Algebra
In algebra, adding and subtracting fractions is easy when you find the common denominator. This video shows you how to convert fractions for the common denominator. After you determine the common denominator [more…]
How to Apply Order of Operations in Algebra
The order of operations in algebra means solving first for exponents or roots, then multiplication, division, addition, and last for subtraction. The steps for the order of operations also require attention [more…]
How to Use FOIL to Distribute Two Binomials
Use FOIL to distribute two binomials. The FOIL method — which stands for first, outer, inner, and last — takes two binomials and multiplies them for a single quadratic equation. Solving for binomials with [more…]
How to Solve Quadratic Equations with the Square Root Rule
In algebra, you can solve a quadratic equation by applying the square root rule. With a squared term and a constant, the special quadratic equation is easily solved. [more…]
How to Multiply and Divide Fractions in Algebra
This video shows how to multiply and divide fractions by multiplying the numerators and denominators - even if the fractions have unlike denominators. In algebra or basic math, cancelling out equal factors [more…]
How to Use UnFOIL to Factor Quadratic Equations
Using the unFOIL method to factor quadratic equations into two binomials requires many steps. Prime factorization and order of decreasing powers are two parts of the unFOIL method, which helps you solve [more…]
Understanding the Vocabulary of Algebra
Equations, operations, variables, constants . . . . Knowing the symbols and expressions used in algebra makes understanding algebra easier. This video explains some of the common phrases and symbols you'll [more…]
