<p>Hi, I'm a current senior. My math skills aren't great (sat math scores were 560 last march, 590 last june, and act math score of 25). Prior to this year, I took regular level math class. Last year, I received the second highest grade in algebra 2 and decided to move up to advanced precalculus. So far I'm doing well in the class (94 in the class). Are there any books that I could purchase to use over the course of the school year that would help me build a better math foundation for college level classes and increase my math ability in general?</p>
<p>If you have the time, I would suggest the Art of Problem Solving Volume 1 (and perhaps Volume 2 if you’re really interested) book. It’s slightly more competition oriented than most school textbooks, but they are written well, teach the concepts effectively, and unlike most school textbooks, focus much more on problem solving ability (which becomes more and more critical the higher up you go). If you can work through the book, you’ll definitely find that your “general” math ability will improve (and not only math but general problem solving and critical thinking abilities). </p>
<p>If you live near a Kumon tutoring center I strongly recommend going even if it is just for a few months. The first thing they will do is give you a math test that will identify exactly what your weak areas are, and then they will give you training and worksheets to focus on those skills until you master them.</p>
<p>AoPS books are for mathletes, that’s not what you need. The Kumon idea is correct.</p>
<p>I second the AoPS textbooks - while some of the problems can be pretty challenging, it focuses more on really understanding the concepts and using them to solve problems that you’ve never seen before. I did a lot of competition math and used some of the AoPS books and other online resources (intro and intermediate Algebra, Geometry, Counting/Combinatorics) and it’s really helped my problem solving/thinking ability, even in college as a math/CS major.</p>
<p>AoPS Intermediate Algebra + Calculus is really good but frankly, those books are a challenge for those with 700+ on SAT Math. If you’re in the 500s, the book is likely too difficult to start off with.</p>
<p>You’re best off starting with a Barron’s SAT II Math Level 2 book [and an SAT I math book as well] and really mastering the material. Then, move to an AopS book. </p>