Precalculus Essentials

This text takes the same approach as the regular Blitzer Precalculus version by deleting chapters.  The 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.

Bob Blitzer is a native of Manhattan and received a Bachelor of Arts degree with dual majors in mathematics and psychology (minor: English literature) from the City College of New York. His unusual combination of academic interests led him toward a Master of Arts in mathematics from the University of Miami and a doctorate in behavioral sciences fro Nova University. Bob is most energized by teaching mathematics and has taught a variety of mathematics courses at Miami-Dade College for nearly 30 years. He has received numerous teaching awards, including Innovator of the Year from the League for Innovations in the Community College, and was among the first group of recipients at Miami-Dade College for an endowed chair based on excellence in the classroom. Bob has written Intermediate Algebra for College Students, Introductory Algebra for College Students, Essentials of Intermediate Algebra for College Students, Introductory and Intermediate Algebra for College Students, Essentials of Introductory and Intermediate Algebra for College Students, Algebra for College Students, Thinking Mathematically, College Algebra, Algebra and Trigonometry, and Precalculus, all published by Prentice Hall.