Same here I couldn’t do an algebra equation in the past and I have a degree. I finally decided to do something about it and at age 53 I’m taking elementary algebra at my local community college. We are almost finished for the semester, a few classes and the final and that’s it.
My class started with 28 students all ages. We are down to 12 and I know that 3 maybe 4 will fail unless they get scores in the 90s on the final. My best guess is 7 will complete the class with a passing grade.
The instructor is “old school” we are not allowed to use calculators at all. He will say, and this is true that we are doing high school level work and that he wants us to understand fully what we are doing.
For me, I’m a self professed “math retard” but I’m happy to say that I’m in solid B territory and expecting to move on to intermediate algebra in the summer session then college algebra in the fall. I don’t blame anyone but myself for my lack of math skills and I intend to learn this subject at all costs.
Congratulations!
Good for you, I would also check out Khanacademy online. You can test yourself on Math equations. This assumes, of course, that you don’t need credits in Math.
Algebra is about solving relationships of variables in equations. One must have a knowledge of logical methods of arranging terms and equating identities. a calculator is of little use for this task. Being handicapped by being denied a calculator is nothing to brag about. A calculator is of little use for algebra.
Good for you!
Attaboy
Good for you, fatboy! How far are you going to take it? Are you going to try tackling the calculus next year?