Publisher's Synopsis
Ever since 1984, when I started my teaching career in mathematics at Austin Community College, Austin, Texas, I envisioned writing a collection of math problems meant to cover most of the undergraduate spectrum. Finally, this collection is available to those interested in sharpening their math skills for academic success or pure enjoyment. The 1,460 problems are presented in groups of four, numbered such that problems 1 and 2 cover developmental mathematics (the essential elementary and secondary school curriculum), while numbers 3 and 4 cover most of the college credit concepts from college algebra to calculus, as the table of contents shows. Each group of four is preceded by a meaningful quotation and ends with the answers to the last question in each of the four problems in the order 1, 2, 3, 4, like this: (4-26-20-15). In addition, this volume starts with my proofs of the Pythagorean Theorem and a few of the basic divisibility rules, important mathematical concepts that are usually presented to students without pertinent justification. In this respect I focused on divisibility by 3, 9, and 4 for which my proofs follow similar patterns. Consequently, I hope this book can help those dedicated to their improvement in the realm of undergraduate mathematics by practicing consistently, patiently, joyfully, and persistently. How to use this collection of math problems is left up to each individual's decision according to her/his readiness, pleasure, and need. Moreover, the 365 inspirational/motivational quotations included in here are meant to combine mathematical and philosophical thinking. This can definitely contribute to significant personal advancement on both fronts, as we all aspire to a better life.
