9This book is designed to provide a sound foundation for subsequent mathematics and math-related courses. Chapter 1 presents a comprehensive review of basic algebraic concepts, and Chapter 2 offers a general introduction to functions and graphs. Chapters 3 through 5 are devoted to a study of trigonometry. With its early introduction, we are able to reinforce trigonometric concepts throughout the remainder of the text. Included in the text are numerous Check Your Understanding boxes with problems that challenge the student's understanding of newly introduced concepts. Detailed solutions of those problems appear in an Appendix. Exercises at the end of each section, covering the gamut of difficulty, provide ample opportunities to hone mathematical skills. Moreover, at the end of each chapter, in addition to Chapter Review Exercises there are Cumulative Review Exercises addressing topics of the current and previous chapters. Graphing calculator glimpses primarily designed to illuminate concepts appear throughout the text. In the final analysis, however, one cannot escape the fact that MATHEMATICS DOES NOT RUN ON BATTERIES A case in point: While graphing calculators can certainly graph most functions better and faster than any of us, learning to sketch them by hand requires an understanding of important concepts, and serves to reinforce those concepts. A student solutions manual with the solutions to odd-numbered exercises is also available.