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How and When You Can Manipulate Square Roots
Radicals are part of the multiplication world. They have the same properties, but because they look weird – living in little “houses” – it is hard to grasp what they can do. Here is how to manipulate and use them.
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How to Add and Multiply in Base 12
In the previous post, I explained some basics about base 12 counting. Since you’re back, clearly you’re a glutton for punishment (or your Algebra book is requiring you to do this). Here’s how to add and subtract in base 12.
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What Base 12 Means
Algebra books seem to think that base 12 is a good idea for humans to use. This is only in the case of that pianist in GATTACA that has 12 fingers. Regardless, if you’re asked to work in base 12, here’s how to do it.
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What the Heck Is the Zero Product Rule?
If two things multiply to get zero, one or both of them better be zero. But does this work with any number? And what’s going on with it anyway?
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Those Pesky Exponents – How to Distribute Exponents over Multiplication
Remember that you can distribute multiplication over addition? You can also distribute exponents over multiplication.
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2 Ways to Multiply Mixed Numbers
Multiplying fractions provides an interesting challenge. Put some mixed number into the situation and you could be facing a real bear. Here are two ways to do it.
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How to Convert Mixed Numbers to “Improper” Fractions
Converting back and forth from improper fractions to mixed numbers isn’t something you do everyday. Here’s a helpful way to remember it long term.
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How to Use the Quadratic Formula to Never Factor Polynomials Again
We learn to factor polynomials so we can solve for x. But some things aren’t so easy to factor (most things?). And some things are just down right a pain in the bottom. Here’s a way to never have to do it again!
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How to Multiply By Hand Without Hurting Your Brain
The Distributive Property isn’t just an Algebra thing. You can use it for regular numbers. And the more you practice with regular numbers, the better you’ll be in the Algebra!
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How and When to Cancel Things in Fractions
One of the common errors in algebra is canceling bits in fractions that can’t be canceled. To remember the rule, though, you don’t have to memorize anything. You only have to think of a plain arithmetic problem to compare it.
About MathFour.com
I’m Bon Crowder and the photos above are both of me – in 1989 and today. I’m a Generation X mom of Generation Z kids. I began peer tutoring in high school in 1984.
MathFour.com is the “today” version of me helping peers be comfortable in math. If you’re a Gen-X parent, you’re in the right place!
Wanna connect? Give me a call at 713-557-8048.