An experienced math teacher breaks down precalculus into a series of easy-to-follow lessons designed for self-teaching and rapid learning. The book features a generous number of step-by-step demonstration examples as well as numerous tables, graphs, and graphing-calculator-based approached. Major topics covered include: algebraic methods; functions and their graphs; complex numbers; polynomial and rational functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; trigonometry and polar coordinates; counting and probability; binomial theorem; calculus preview; and much more. Exercises at the end of each chapter reinforce key concepts while helping students monitor their progress. Barron's continues its ongoing project of improving, updating, and giving contemporary new designs to its popular <i> Easy Way </i> books, now re-named <i>Barron's E-Z Series.</i> The new cover designs reflect the books' brand-new page layouts, which feature extensive two-color treatment, a fresh, modern typeface, and many more graphics. In addition to charts, graphs, and diagrams, the graphic features include instructive line illustrations, and where appropriate, amusing cartoons. <i> Barron's E-Z </i> books are self-teaching manuals designed to improve students' grades in many academic and practical subjects. In most cases, the skill level ranges between senior high school and college-101 standards. In addition to their self-teaching value, these books are also widely used as textbooks or textbook supplements in classroom settings. <i> E-Z</i> books review their subjects in detail and feature short quizzes and longer tests to help students gauge their learning progress. All exercises and tests come with answers. Subject heads and key phrases are set in a second color as an easy reference aid.