Finite Mathematics for Business Economics, Life Sciences and Social Sciences (10th Edition)

Our price:	$114.00
Media:	Hardcover
Author:	Raymond A. Barnett, Michael R. Ziegler, Karl E. Byleen
Publisher:	Prentice Hall
Release date:	22 March, 2004

Average user rating: Average user rating: 3

Sound choice for a finite math textbook

This is a very sound choice as a textbook for a course in finite mathematics. The coverage is appropriate, the level suitable for the non-math major, the explanations are excellent and the authors take the title seriously.
The topics are covered in the following order:

* Elementary functions and their graphs.
* The mathematics of finance.
* Matrices and systems of linear equations.
* Linear inequalities and linear programming.
* Logic, set theory and basic counting.
* Probability and probability distributions.
* Basic game and decision theory.
* Markov chains.

There are many exercises and at the end of each section there is a set of basic exercises followed by a collection of applied problems. The set of applied problems is split into three categories: business & economics, life sciences and social sciences. Since finite mathematics is often a preparation for students to work in these fields, this format is what impressed me the most. With all of these "real world" problems to work as part of their study, no student using this book could ever legitimately say that they see no purpose to their studies. Solutions to the odd-numbered problems are included.
I came into contact with this book after my choice of textbook was irrevocable. Had I seen it earlier, it would have been the one I used.

Many exercises in economics, life and the social sciences

Not user friendly

I am currently using this book for my college course. Examples
are not clear, and many steps missed. Per our instructor alot of the answers in the back are inaccurate. I do not recommend this book for students whom are not well versed in algebra