TopTenREVIEWS

TopTenREVIEWS - Bronze Award - Awarded for excellence in design, useability and feature set

Algebrator from Softmath might not be as complex as Math Success Deluxe or Math Advantage, but it offers a dynamic worksheet capable of solving any equation you enter into it. We tried to throw several different types of equations at it, but they were no match for the worksheet. The lack of any other discernable features doesn’t matter because this program serves as a tutor for struggling students. It doesn’t just solve the problem for them; it offers an explanation so they can solve it the next time. This feature is only available when the student allows the program to solve the equation for them. When they solve it themselves however, the program goes back and checks their work. That sounds a lot like a tutor to me.

Standout Features

  • User-friendly algebra problem input
  • Step-by-step problem solution
  • Context sensitive tutoring explanations
  • Covers entire College Algebra
  • Interactive student solution checker
  • Wizard interface for complex problems
Algebrator Screenshots
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Teaching Tools:   Excellent

As I said before, Algebrator teaches its problems using a dynamic, powerful worksheet, but nothing else. No games or animations come with this program. However, this shouldn’t keep you from buying this product because it does have a lot to offer. It’s an interactive tutor you can benefit from in the comfort of your own home.

 

Homework Help:   Excellent

With its worksheet, Algebrator seems to do the homework for you, but there aren't any other homework help features available besides that.

Topics Covered:   Excellent

It’s difficult to determine what topics Algebrator offers because they’re all put into one large pool of example programs and formulas. Based on the large amount of different topics present in the example problems section, we believe their coverage includes Pre-Algebra and Algebra I, but not Algebra II. One thing they could improve on is how they tell you what’s covered in their program.

Up-to-Datedness:   Excellent

When it came to this category, we had no expectations when we started up Algebrator. Needless to say, we were very surprised when it said there were new updates to download on three consecutive days of starting up the program. What those updates offer is unclear. The fact the program does have such regular updates is a definite plus though.

Ease of Use/Support:   Excellent

Algebrator was the best program we reviewed when it came to ease of use. The others had problems with loading time across the board, but this program loaded everything in seconds. Granted, this program doesn’t have as many features as the others. However, if all those features make the program run slower, turning it into something that’s no longer easy to use, then those extra features aren’t worth it. Streamlined programs are better because they don’t slow your computer down.

Summary:  

This Algebra software is special because it’s the only one that has a button within the program that connects starts an email to Softmath’s customer support. All you have to do is input your information and send it to them. You don’t even have to open your own email program. You just have to click the “Support” button. Convenience is always a good thing.

Despite all of its limitations, Algebrator is a program worth taking a look at. It gives you everything you need to solve the problems you have before you without all the fluff other programs push in your direction. You won’t be disappointed if you pick up a copy of it today because you won’t need anything else to succeed in Algebra.

 
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Algebra Software Review

Algebrator

Publisher: Softmath
Good
Overall Rating
Very Good
Teaching Tools
Very Good
Homework Help
Very Good
Topics Covered
Fair
Up-to-Datedness
Good
Ease of Use/Support
Lowest Price:
$58.99
PUBLISHER
#3 of 4 Algebra Software Products
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Lowest Price:
$58.99
PUBLISHER
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