--For dummies

Includes index

Explains the how and the why of solving linear algebra problems in plain English. From matrices to vector spaces to linear transformations, you'll understand the key concepts and see how they relate to everything from genetics to nutrition to spotted owl extinction

Putting a name to linear algebra -- Value of involving vectors -- Mastering matrices and matrix algebra -- Getting systematic with systems of equations -- Lining up linear combinations -- Investigating the matrix equation Ax + b -- Homing in on homogeneous systems and linear independence -- Making changes with linear transformations -- Keeping things in order with permutations -- Evaluating determinants -- Personalizing the properties of determinants -- Taking advantage of Cramer's rule -- Involving vector spaces -- Seeking out subspaces of a vector space -- Scoring big with vector space bases -- Eyeing eigenvalues and eigenvectors -- Ten real-world applications using matrices -- Ten (or so) linear algebra processes you can do on your calculator -- Ten mathematical meanings of Greek letters