Becoming a Mental Math Wizard

An effort to make math fun through doing and performing rather than studying and pondering

Grade 11 Up-- The goal of this recreational mathematics book is to give readers a feeling of accomplishment by finding that they can master what seems at the onset to be an impossible task. Explanations are well structured, but readers should have a solid grounding in beginning and, possibly, intermediate algebra. Techniques for doing squares, multiplication, and division are presented. YAs learn to use logarithms and Taylor series to simplify difficult calculations. Trigonometric functions and triangulation enable them to measure distances (across a lake, to the horizon, to landmarks from a plane in flight). Probability theory helps in predictions as well as game playing. Charts and graphs are used when needed to enhance explanations. This is a rewarding read for those interested in mathematics. The human brain is still faster than the pocket calculator, and the techniques in this book enable readers to do more mathematics in their heads. A good purchase for collections serving young adults. --Margaret M. Hagel, Norfolk Public Library System, VA
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.