Algebraic Manipulation
Are you a master of the kinds of algebraic manipulation you need in order to do great on the AMC?
In order to answer “yes,” you should be able to do any of the following when needed, without any hints or prompting:
- notice, and factor, a difference of squares (i.e. x2−y2=(x−y)(x+y))
- notice, and factor, a difference or sum of cubes
- notice, and factor, a few others like that
Examples
- When you see x2−2xy+y2, do you immediately and automatically think of (x−y)2 ?
- And do you also immediately think that adding 4xy to the original expression will change (x−y)2 to (x+y)2 ?
What to do
- If so, then this section should be easy for you. Click “complete” below, and we’ll add all the relevant quizzes to your deck. Then, during your short daily practice, we’ll occasionally quiz you on this knowledge in a way that etch it into your memory for good.
- If you aren’t so sure, then you can still click “complete” below, and add it to your quizzes, but I recommend against adding anything else for today. Instead, work with these new cards for today, and consider adding more fresh knowledge tomorrow.
Now continue onto your drills by clicking Quizzes in the menu on your left.