At the start of every school year, my algebra students always ask me this crucial question:

As you begin the journey in Alpha Teach Yourself Algebra 1 in 24 Hours, you may find yourself asking the same question. This book helps you find the answer. Along the way, you will discover that when you invest in algebra, you invest in yourself. Learning the hows and whys of algebra will expand your mind and open up new possibilities for your life.

Teaching yourself algebra is like taking the letters of the alphabet and putting them together to read a book. Basic arithmetic is algebra’s alphabet. In the next 24 hours, you’ll take what you already know and learn how to use it to “read” higher-level algebra.

One of the things you’ll see early on is that you are already using algebra every day. This book simply helps you be more fluent in its language. Since you already have a good grasp of addition and multiplication from basic math, you have the foundation to take the next step up.

For example, each time you figure out which is the better deal, a 3-pound bag of potatoes for $1.99 or a 5-pound bag for $3.99, you’re using algebra. Calculators and computers can do a lot of the math work, but only you can tell these machines what problem needs to be solved, which numbers should be used, and what needs to be done with the results.

Everyone works at a different rate. Some of the “hours” may take you less than 60 minutes, and others may take more. But no matter how much time elapses, over the course of the 24 chapters, you will see complex concepts broken down into manageable bits. You will find examples to follow and problems to try on your own, plus 10 problems at the end of each hour to reinforce what you’ve just learned.

Calculators are helpful for a few of the problems, but most of the calculations are done easily in your head or with pencil and paper. Most of the answers will be whole numbers because the goal is for you to focus on the algebraic concepts, not the math calculations.

Hold on tight. You are about to experience the joy of mastering a subject many people find difficult. It will make no difference if you’ve been away from algebra for years or if this is your first attempt. During the next 24 hours, new analytical skills will help you in all areas of your life. Algebra is not something everyone feels they can do. But you can. That’s got to feel good.

Last but not least, this book has a lot of miscellaneous cross-references, tips, and shortcuts in sidebar boxes. Here’s how they stack up: