Tussy/Gustafson Elementary and Intermediate Algebra Combined, 6th edition (Cengage 2025). The most-recent active refresh in the Cengage developmental-algebra space. Combined Beg+Int dev-algebra textbook covering the same scope as Pearson combined dev-alg books (Lial Combined, Bittinger Combined, Martin-Gay Combined). Built fresh against the M0481 + M0482 source-class video pool with M1431 cross-listing for the College-Algebra-tier chapters (Exp/Log, Conics, Sequences).
Introduction to algebraic vocabulary, the language and structure of algebra; sets of real numbers and operations on them; exponents, order of operations, and inequality.
Solving linear equations and inequalities in one variable; literal-equation manipulation; problem-solving strategies; compound and absolute-value inequalities.
The rectangular coordinate system; graphing lines, slope, equations of lines, and linear inequalities in two variables; an introduction to function notation and basic graphing.
Solving systems of two and three linear equations; substitution and elimination methods; problem solving with systems.
Integer and negative-integer exponent rules; scientific notation; operations on polynomials; polynomial functions; the GCF and grouping as a factoring lead-in.
GCF and grouping; trinomial factoring; special-form factoring (perfect squares, difference of squares, sum/difference of cubes); the zero-product property and introductory quadratic problem solving.
Simplifying, multiplying, dividing, adding, and subtracting rational expressions; complex fractions; long and synthetic division; equations containing rational expressions; proportion- and variation-style problem solving.
Radicals and radical functions; rational exponents; simplifying radicals; rationalizing denominators; radical equations; and an introduction to the complex-number system.
Solving quadratic equations by completing the square and the quadratic formula; equations in quadratic form; nonlinear inequalities; quadratic functions and their graphs (vertex, intercepts, applications).
Algebra of functions and inverse functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; properties of logarithms; common and natural logs and the change-of-base formula; exponential and logarithmic equations and applications.
Parabolas, circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, and other conic sections; standard forms and graphical interpretation.
Sequences (general, arithmetic, and geometric); series and summation notation; the binomial theorem.