GED Basics in Mathematics

About the Book

The aim of this book is to present the subject matter of arithmetic, geometry, and algebra with the utmost clarity and simplicity. It is based on the mathematical subjects required in four years of high school study and will prepare the student with the skills necessary to pass the GED Mathematics Test. The text consists of ten chapters with a review of geometry and algebra because of the many concepts introduced in these particular subjects. The last chapter is devoted to a practice test consisting of questions and problems similar to those presented on the real GED test. Answers to the practice test are provided with detailed explanations of the suggested method of solving each problem.

Each chapter opens with a brief introduction before developing the ideas and facts of the subject matter. In order to give the student an insight into the principle involved, many examples are given to provide an understanding of the topic rather than to just offer a rule. The examples enable students to proceed at their own pace, in accordance with their individual needs. Problems are then introduced for the student to solve so as to stimulate clear and organized thinking. Answers to the problems are included at the end of each chapter thus helping to reinforce the students' knowledge step by step.

Due to the fact that the language is direct, and the method of presentation is concerned with essentials only, the skills can be learned by anyone willing to spend some time in self-study. Also, even though simplified, this book of mathematics is complete and authoritative. It is recommended for use in home schooling, as a supplementary text, or as a gateway to advanced math and science.

About the Author

The Author (Varela, Henry R.) was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. After high school, the author enlisted in the Navy and aboard ship was introduced to the world of high-tech equipment which consisted of shipboard radio, radar, sonar, steam turbines, electrical generators, motors and much more. The author immediately became interested in the technology but realized that to operate, maintain, or understand the complex equipment aboard ship would require much more academic preparation than he possessed at the time. The problem was his lack of the basics, the basics of mechanics, electricity, science, and math. A good high school course in basic physics and math would have been just what was needed as a prerequisite. Fortunately there were some books available on board so that an intense self-study effort was accomplished, but these books were often far and few between. He spent many hours searching for self-instruction books that were easy to understand.

Upon obtaining an Honorable Discharge four years later, the author registered in college determined to enrich his education and to develop the skills he needed so desperately while in the military. In a discussion of his US Navy experience with a professor, he was told that a similar thing happens with many high school graduates beginning their first year of college. Students cannot grasp beginning calculus or college-level science courses because they lack a firm knowledge of the basics of mathematics. Although the author had to take beginning courses in Algebra and Geometry before going on, he did complete college and obtained a B.S.in Electrical Engineering. Upon graduation he secured a demanding technical position with a large electronics firm where he worked on high-level weapon system projects both in plant and in the field. Toward the end of his career before retiring, his expertise was used to create written technical descriptions and methods of repairing recently designed systems. The author, however, never forgot his experience and is now beginning to write books dedicated to the BASICS. The author starts with this current book, "GED Basics in Mathematics."