The 10 Best Precalculus Textbooks
This wiki has been updated 9 times since it was first published in February of 2019. The great thing about math is that, just when you think it's as hard as it can possibly be, it manages to find a way to be even more difficult. While we can't help you with every step of your academic career, we can take some of the sting out of your precalculus classes with these textbooks. They spell out the material in clear, easy-to-understand ways, serving to demystify the subject - somewhat. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. Skip to the best precalculus textbook on Amazon.
10. Miller's Precalculus
9. Coburn's Precalculus
8. Precalculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic
7. Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus
6. Sullivan's Precalculus
5. Abramson's Precalculus
4. Precalculus: Advanced Math Concepts
3. Blitzer's Precalculus
2. Larson's Precalculus
1. Precalculus: The Art of Problem Solving
Editor's Notes
March 18, 2019:
While the math might be basically the same in all these books, that doesn't mean they all take the same approach or are all intended for the same audience. Some, like Miller's Precalculus, are aimed at students who might be overwhelmed by the material, especially if they lack a firm grasp of the prerequisites. Others, like Larson's Precalculus, are more geared to students who are looking to advance in mathematics and require a challenge. Sullivan's Precalculus is a nice middle-of-the-road solution, as it pushes learners to prepare themselves for more difficult material while also gently forcing them to brush up on things they should already know.
After getting his bachelor’s from the University of Texas, Quincy Miller moved out to Los Angeles, where he soon found work as a copywriter and researcher, specializing in health and wellness topics for a major online media brand. Quincy is also knowledgeable about home improvement, as he’s had extensive experience with everything from insulation to power tools to emergency room trips, sometimes in that order. Sharing a home with three dogs and a couple of cats has forced Quincy to learn as much as he can about pet supplies, animal nutrition and, most importantly, the best ways to tackle the mountains of fur that accumulate in every corner of your home.