About Just Enough Algebra
In 1994, Dr. Suzanne Dorée and colleagues at Augsburg College had a vision for a new course to replace our intermediate algebra course. We wanted a college level course that would serve primarily as preparation for quantitative courses across the curriculum. The framing question that led to our curricular adventure of the past three decades was
What algebra do college students need to know, and how can we make it relevant to their future studies, their lives as citizens, and their everyday life?
From these questions Just Enough Algebra was born.
As you will see, everything we do is in some applied context. Our choices to focus primarily on linear and exponential models; to emphasize verbal, numerical, and graphical interpretation of functions; to develop students' quantitative reasoning; and to include only the most essential symbolic techniques align well with curricular guides from the MAA and AMATYC.
More importantly, it works. Student learn a lot in this course. They are ready for what comes next. And, they enjoy it.
Editions
Just Enough Algebra is available in two editions.
2024 edition
Originally converted to PreTeXt in 2024 from the LaTeX source, this is a faithful reproduction of the 2014 edition published by Xanedu.
2026 edition
This edition includes many improvements and updates. Chiefly, each section contains integrated Activities designed to engage students in the work of the classroom. See the 2026 edition page for more details.