Everyday Math for Everyday Life
A Handbook for When It Just Doesn't Add Up
Introduction
Like it or not, math is here to stay. We live in a world of percentages,
statistics, interest rates, and taxes. The Dow goes up 3 percent, the NASDAQ
drops 5 percent. The inflation rate is such-and-such a percent, the trade
deficit is so many billions, and the national debt is so many trillions. And how
big of a tip should you leave? You just can't get away from numbers.
My aim in writing this book is to give you an easy-to-follow guide to the math
you encounter in your everyday life. I hope this single volume will become the
first resource you turn to for all your mathematical or numerical questions. The
topics range from the simple-how to solve a percentage problem, how to figure a
tip, how to balance your checkbook-to the complex-the formula for the present
value of an annuity, an installment loan formula, and believe it or not, a
simple explanation of Einstein's famous formula, E = mc2. You will also find
here important numerical facts and definitions: everything from the definitions
of gross domestic product and the f ... read full excerpt from: Everyday Math for Everyday Life: A Handbook for When It Just Doesn't Add Up ebook