This student-focused text addresses individual learning styles through the use of a complete study system that starts with a learning styles inventory and presents targeted learning strategies designed to guide students toward success in this and future college-level courses. Students who approach math with trepidation will find that Elementary Algebra, Second Edition, builds competence and confidence. The study system, introduced at the outset and used consistently throughout the text, transforms the student experience by applying time-tested strategies to the study of mathematics. Learning strategies dovetail nicely into the overall system and build on individual learning styles by addressing students' unique strengths. The authors talk to students in their own language and walk them through the concepts, showing students both how to do the math and the reasoning behind it. Tying it all together, the use of the Algebra Pyramid as an overarching theme relates specific chapter topics to the 'big picture' of algebra.