Your success in algebra depends on your active participation both in class and outside of class. Because the material you learn each day builds upon the material you learned previously, it is important that you keep up with the course work every day and develop a clear plan of study. To help you learn how to study algebra, we have prepared a set of guidelines that highlight key study strategies.

Preparing for Class
The syllabus your instructor provides is an invaluable resource that outlines the major topics to be covered in the course. Use it to help you prepare. As a general rule, you should set aside two to four hours of study time for each hour spent in class. Being prepared is the first step toward success in algebra. Before class,

• Review your notes from the previous class.
• Read the portion of the text that will be covered in class.
• Use the objectives listed at the beginning of each section to keep you focused on the main ideas of the section.
• Pay special attention to the definitions, rules and concepts highlighted in boxes. Also, be sure you understand the meaning of mathematical symbols and terms written in boldface type. Keep a vocabulary journal for easy reference.
• Read through the solved examples. Use the side comments given in the solution steps to help you follow the solution process. Also, read the Study Tips given in the margin.
• Make notes of anything you do not understand as you read through the text. If you still do not understand after your instructor covers that topic, ask questions before your instructor moves on to a new topic.
• If you are using technology in this course, read the Technology Tips and try the Technology Discovery exercises.

Keeping Up
Another important step towards success in algebra involves your ability to keep up with the work. It is very easy to fall behind, especially if you miss a class. To keep up with the course work, be sure to

• Attend every class. Bring your text, a notebook, and a pen or pencil. If you miss a class, get the notes from a classmate as soon as possible and review them carefully.
• Read the portion of the text that will be covered in class.
• Take notes in class. After class, read through your notes and add explanations so that your notes make sense to you.
• Re-read the portion of your text that was covered in class. This time, work each example before reading through the solution.
• Do your homework as soon as possible while concepts are still fresh in your mind.
• Use your notes from class, the text discussion, the examples, and Study Tips as you do your homework. Many exercises are keyed to specific examples in the text for easy reference.

Getting Extra Help
It can be very frustrating when you do not understand concepts and are unable to complete homework assignments. However, there are many resources available to help you with your study of algebra.

• Your instructor may have office hours. If you are feeling overwhelmed and need help, make an appointment to discuss your difficulties with your instructor.
• Find a study partner or a study group. Sometimes it helps to work through problems with another person.
• Arrange to get regular assistance from a tutor. Many colleges have a math resource center available on campus, as well.
• Consult one of the many ancillaries available with this text: the Student Solutions Guide, tutorial software, videotapes, and additional study resources available at our web site at college.hmco.com.

Preparing for an Exam
The last step towards success in algebra lies in how you prepare for and complete an exam. If you have followed the suggestions given above, then you are almost ready for the exam. Do not assume that you can cram for the exam the night before - this seldom works. As a final preparation for the exam,

• Read the Chapter Summary, which is keyed to each section, and review concepts and terms
• Work through the Review Exercises if you need extra practice on material from a particular section.
• Take the Mid-Chapter Quiz and the Chapter Test as if you were in class. You should set aside at least one hour per test. Check your answers against the answers given in the back of the text.
• Review your notes and the portion of the text that will be covered on the exam.
• Avoid studying up until the last minute. This will only make you anxious.
• Once the exam begins, read through the directions and the entire exam before beginning. Work the problems that you know how to do first to avoid spending too much of the exam time on one problem. Time management is extremely important when taking an exam.
• If you finish early, take the remaining exam time to go over your work.
• When you get an exam back, review it carefully and go over your errors. Rework the problems you answered incorrectly. Discovering the mistakes you made will help you improve your test-taking ability.