We use this placement tool to assess your preparation for a number of our introductory courses, so there is no calculus on this test. Sample topics are:
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Simplifying algebraic and numerical expressions, such as simplifying algebraic fractions, exponential expressions and radicals
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Solving equations and inequalities. These may range from linear equations and inequalities, to quadratic, logarithmic, or exponential equations.
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Working with function notation and graphs, such as identifying the shape of a graph from a given function or identifying the domain of a function.
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Applied problems (“word problems”)
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Trigonometry, particularly the unit circle and basic relationships between the main trigonometric functions. Mastery of formulas such as half-angle and double-angle formulas.
Good resources for brushing up
A frequent comment from students when they take our mathematics placement assessment is that they don’t do as well as they’d like because they spent their senior years taking calculus, and there seems to be no calculus questions on the test. There is no calculus on the test because we are assessing essential skills for success in calculus as well as in our other courses. If you have done well in calculus in high school, then you should know how to solve equations, work with trig functions, simplify radicals, etc.
More frequently, students don’t do as well as they’d like on our mathematics placement assessment because they may be a little rusty. It is in your best interest to review before you take the test. Here are some resources:
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Your high school class notes and exams
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Paul’s Online Math Notes (http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu), particularly the “Extras/Reviews” section on Algebra and Trigonometry
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Tutorials available through the Khan Academy website (http://www.khanacademy.org)
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($$) Schaum’s Outline of Precalculus, 3rd edition, by Fred Safier. Available through various merchants for about $20 (new)
