College Algebra in Context with Applications for the Managerial, Life, and Social Sciences is a comprehensive textbook designed for students majoring in business, social sciences, and life sciences. Authored by Ronald Harshbarger, this 5th edition, published by Pearson on January 3, 2016, emphasizes practical applications and real-world problem-solving skills through modeling and contextualized learning.

The book covers a wide range of topics in algebra, including new sections on conics and the binomial theorem. With a total of 768 pages, it provides extensive coverage suitable for college-level courses. The authors have crafted the content to help students develop their problem-solving abilities not just for academic success but also for future careers.

For this edition, MyMathLab—an online homework, tutorial, and assessment program—has been enhanced to offer a more robust learning experience. This digital resource supports the book’s focus on applications by providing additional problem types and personalized study plans that help students master course material and tackle complex concepts effectively.

The textbook is ideal for students seeking to enhance their algebraic skills in a practical context, making it a valuable tool both inside and outside the classroom.