Ash's 19th Post

So, first off, I almost forgot about this!
YAY FACEBOOK! (when I see some people's names, I automatically think "Calculus"..don't ask)

Anywho, Christmas was fun, New Years is going to be great! On with the math!!

My brother needs help in Pre-Algebra and he asked me. Okay, no big deal, Pre-Alg, righT? I saw his problems and tried to take the derivative. Then I tried to use some of the formulas I learned. That's when it hit me....IT'S PRE-ALGEBRA! -.- Apparently, I fail completely at not using Calculus now.... -.-

So, because I know a lot of us have problems with algebra (and I forgot my Calc notebook in my locker), how about I go over some algebra rules?

When multiplying, JUST MULTIPLY! NO PRODUCT RULE! (=])
2x(3)+4 does NOT equal 2(3)+0+4

When dividing, JUST DIVIDE! NO QUOTIENT RULE! (=])
2x/3 does NOT equal (2)(3)-(0)

Now that that's cleared up, let's move on.

What to explain, what to explain...or to clarify? Hmmm

Simplifying!
Lots of us mess up while simplifying an insanely beast problem, right? RIGHT!
So, here are some tips that I've decided to share.

1. Is the problem REALLY supposed to be that beast? I mean seriously, yes, lots are huge, but if it takes up 3 lines in your notebook for one equation, chances are that you mess up somewhere. Always take it slow and double check as you go. (hehe, the rhymes)
2. Once all actual solving is done, (now this is just what I do) find the largest exponential term(s) and underline them. Now, simplify those and write it on your next line, or wherever you write the final. Keep going with this process until all terms are done. Double check.

Now, those are my methods, but I'm not sure if it'll work.

Now, for my questions.
How do you work on the AP exam? Okay, so there's a specific way to work more efficiently on the ACT and whatnot, right? So, is there a method that anyone uses that they'd like to share with me? It'd be greatly appreciated!!

Happy New Year to all!!