Schaum’s Outline of Precalculus, Fourth Edition

A Practical Precalculus Companion 📐

Schaum’s Outline of Precalculus, Fourth Edition focuses on the algebraic and trigonometric skills that matter most before calculus. Fred Safier’s approach is direct and problem-centered: each topic begins with the essentials, then moves immediately into worked examples that show how the ideas operate in practice.

Where the Outline Excels ✏️

Rather than burying readers in theory, the book uses concise chapter-openers followed by extensive solved problems. This helps you see the logic behind each step, from simplifying expressions and solving equations to analyzing functions and graphing transformations.

• Clear summaries of definitions, principles, and theorems
• Solved problems that develop each topic in logical order
• Supplementary problems with answers for reinforcement
• Covers polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions
• Includes systems of equations, matrices, determinants, conic sections, and discrete mathematics

From Functions to Analytic Geometry

The outline moves through the core precalculus sequence—equations, inequalities, functions and graphs—then extends into analytic geometry, trigonometry, and the algebraic tools needed for calculus. This structure makes it useful whether you are reviewing before a calculus course or filling gaps during the semester.

Digital Access Included

The fourth edition includes access to video and audio resources through the website and app. These materials supplement the book’s worked examples and give additional ways to reinforce difficult concepts.

Who Should Use This Book

This outline is designed for college students preparing for calculus and for anyone who wants a structured, practice-heavy review of precalculus. Instructors and tutors may also find the supplementary problems helpful for assignments and test preparation.