If you had taken algebra a few years ago and need a refresher for your GED or ASVAB, this book will be fine.If you have never taken algebra, or like me, took it 20 years ago and have forgotten most or all of it, this book is almost useless.at best you get a short paragraph on the theory of the problem to solve, then you get the answer. very seldom do you get a breakdown of the indvidual steps that took you from problem to conclusion. this is the first "Dummies" book which I have ever thrown across a room.