How do I remember algebraic equations?

[tbird88]

I need to take a placement test at my community college. They use My Math Test. I passed the algebra basic with 90% and now I need to pass algebra core. I can't seem to remember how to do quadratic equations and quadratic functions. When I study I do fairly well but when I go back to do quiz I can't seem to figure out how to solve the problem. I need to pass algebra core to place into statistics 146. I don't know what to do. Should I just take College Algebra over again? Or should I keep trying to figure out how to solve these quadratic equations. If I test today I do not know if I would pass. When I see a problem, I just look at it and then I can't figure out what equation to use and how to go about solving it. Any suggestions as what I should do? Someone told me repetition is key. To keep doing the problems over and over. And I am trying that.

[tbird88]

I'm sorry I post in wrong area. I meant to post in Prenursing student.

[firstinfamily, RN]

tbird, I learned the algebra by doing the equations over and over, I was finally able to decipher which formula to use with what problems etc. There are most likely some web sites that give help with algebra. I would not want to repeat the algebra class you have already taken, as that is a time, and money waste. You would only be able to bring up your grade, if that would help your GPA then perhaps repeating the class might help you. I would try to find a good resource, does your college have a math lab where you can receive tutoring?? When do you have to take the test? It is important that you keep progressing in your college career, sometimes you do have to take a step backwards to move forwards. I would take the test and if you do not get into the statistics class then repeat the algebra. Hope this helps!! Good Luck!!

[tbird88]

firstinfamily, I can take the test when I want to. I did go to a algebra brushup at my college where they offer free tutoring. I suppose I could go back for more tutoring and see if that helps. Then I could take the test and see how I do. Thank you for your advice.

I think the "for dummies" books provide concise and readable reviews.

Memorizing equations is just a matter of repetition with which flashcards can help.

If you struggle with problem solving methodologies, it might behoove you to take a class.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I'm sorry I post in wrong area. I meant to post in Prenursing student.

No problem. Your post has been moved to the Pre-Nursing Student forum. Good luck to you!

[SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP]

Khan Academy is free and has great tutorials on the quadratic formula. It really took me doing problems over & over before I finally got the formula memorized. Check out their algebra tutorials. Very helpful!

[tbird88]

Khan Academy is free and has great tutorials on the quadratic formula. It really took me doing problems over & over before I finally got the formula memorized. Check out their algebra tutorials. Very helpful!

Thank you I will check it out.

[tbird88]

Well I've been plugging along with the Algebra equations and I tested 69% so far. I need 77% to pass into Statistics 146 so I think I will take a brush up class at the college and then retest again. I think I will be able to test out of Algebra Core.

[dt70]

Search Algebralab . Under Topic drop-down select quadratic equations then click search.

Pretty good instructions. Direct to the point. I've tried Kahn but could never understand their dialect enough to understand their lessons.

[tbird88]

Thank you dt70 I will search Algebralab.

[tbird88]

Well I got a 75% and I need 77%!! I have just been plugging along with the Algebra equations and I went to a brushup class at the college. I took Intermediate Algebra in 2001. I am almost there. So very close, I should of past this time and I didn't. I have one more chance for Winter Quarter.