Basic College Mathematics

Foundational math, taught with structure

Basic College Mathematics is a developmental mathematics worktext built around the essentials students need most: whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios, percent, measurement, geometry, data, and introductory algebra. The 13th edition keeps the focus practical and steady, with clear progression from skill-building to applications.

This is the kind of text that meets readers where they are. The chapter flow moves from arithmetic fundamentals into real-number operations and equation solving, while the review sections, tests, and cumulative reviews make it easier to revisit earlier ideas before moving on. The result is a textbook that feels designed for course use as much as for independent practice.

What the book covers

• Whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and mixed numerals
• Ratios, proportions, percents, and interest
• Measurement, area, volume, and basic geometry
• Data, graphs, statistics, and probability
• Real numbers and solving equations

Built for developmental math courses

The material is especially well suited to students who need a careful, confidence-building path through foundational mathematics before moving into more advanced algebra. The included activities and digital learning integration support a classroom workflow centered on practice, review, and application.

A practical, course-ready math reference

For instructors and students working through college preparatory mathematics, this edition offers a familiar Pearson worktext structure with plenty of reinforcement and everyday problem contexts. It is methodical rather than flashy, and that is part of its strength.