Intermediate Algebra

Intermediate algebra asks students to connect techniques, not simply memorize them: how equations relate to graphs, how factoring supports solving, and how functions describe changing quantities. This 13th edition by Margaret L. Lial, John Hornsby, and Terry McGinnis moves through those ideas in a carefully staged textbook, beginning with a review of real-number skills and progressing to more advanced algebraic topics.

Its scope makes it suitable for a developmental or intermediate algebra course, with explanations, worked examples, and substantial opportunities to practice and revisit concepts. A practical feature of the book is its recurring review structure: readers can work through a chapter, check understanding, and return to earlier skills as the mathematics becomes more demanding.

From number skills to algebraic reasoning

The opening review revisits fractions, decimals, percents, operations on real numbers, exponents, roots, and basic algebra. The main chapters then develop linear equations and inequalities, formulas and applications, coordinate graphs, slope, functions, and systems of linear equations. This progression gives students a route from foundational manipulation toward interpreting relationships and solving problems with algebraic models.

Explore the central strands of intermediate algebra

• Expressions and structure: exponents, scientific notation, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, radicals, and complex numbers.
• Equations and inequalities: linear and quadratic methods, rational and radical equations, and polynomial or rational inequalities.
• Functions and graphs: linear, quadratic, inverse, exponential, logarithmic, and other nonlinear functions, alongside conic sections and nonlinear systems.
• Further topics: sequences, series, and the binomial theorem.

Because these subjects are presented across connected chapters, readers can see how algebraic operations, equations, and graphs build on one another rather than treating each technique as an isolated rule.

Practice, review, and study habits

Each chapter includes a combination of summaries, review exercises, mixed-review exercises, tests, and cumulative review. The book also opens with study-skills material on using a math text, taking notes, completing homework, managing time, reviewing chapters, and preparing for tests. These features make the text useful not only for following course topics but also for organizing regular practice and revisiting earlier material.

For students and instructors

This textbook is aimed at students studying developmental or intermediate algebra, especially those who benefit from a gradual presentation and repeated opportunities to check their understanding. Instructors will find a broad course sequence extending from foundational review through functions, nonlinear topics, and further algebra. Pearson describes the edition as part of the Lial Developmental Algebra Series and pairs its print program with MyLab Math resources; access to any separate digital platform or course materials should be confirmed independently.

For a substantial, structured treatment of algebra—from real-number review to logarithms, conics, and sequences—Intermediate Algebra offers a clear path through the subject and plenty of opportunities to practice along the way.