Mastering the Fundamentals of Mathematics

Whether you're a high-school student preparing for the challenges of higher math classes, an adult who needs a refresher in math to prepare for a new career, or someone who just wants to keep his or her mind active and sharp, there's no denying that a solid grasp of arithmetic and prealgebra is essential in today's world. Knowing the fundamentals of mathematics can

increase your chances of success in high-school and college math classes;
prepare you for a career in a field that requires a strong foundation in math, such as economics, engineering, medicine, and the building trades;
strengthen your everyday critical thinking skills; and
help you handle with confidence everyday tasks such as shopping and planning a personal budget.

Yet despite how basic this kind of math may seem, the mechanics of mathematics remains a mystery to many of us because we've been taught to focus solely on our answers. But in the opinion of award-winning Professor James A. Sellers of The Pennsylvania State University, a true understanding of basic math involves more than just arriving at the right solution. It involves

properly understanding the nature of numbers and mathematical concepts,
paying close attention to the step-by-step processes behind different calculations, and
thinking about what you're solving for—and why you're solving for it in a specific way.

This more well-rounded approach to the basics of mathematics is a surefire way to strengthen your current knowledge or to gain new skills for more deftly and confidently approaching and dealing with math. And it's all available to you in Professor Sellers' engaging course, Mastering the Fundamentals of Mathematics. Using the same inspirational teaching skill and experience he's brought to his other popular Great Courses in math, Professor Sellers reveals the secrets behind all the key math topics you need to know. In 24 lectures packed with helpful examples, practice problems, and guided walkthroughs, you'll finally grasp the all-important fundamentals of math in a way that truly sticks.