The second edition builds on the strength of the first edition. Chapters are arranged to follow the same order as the chapters in our Mathematics HL (Core) second edition, making it easier for teachers who have combined classes of SL and HL students.

Syllabus references are given at the beginning of each chapter. The new edition reflects the Mathematics SL syllabus more closely, with several sections from the first edition being consolidated in this second edition for greater teaching efficiency. Topics such as Pythagoras' theorem, coordinate geometry, and right angled triangle trigonometry, which appeared in Chapters 7 and 10 in the first edition, are now in the ‘Background Knowledge’ at the beginning of the book and accessible as printable pages on the CD.

Changes have been made in response to the introduction of a calculator-free examination paper. A large number of questions have been added and categorised as ‘calculator’ or ‘non calculator’. In particular, the final chapter contains over 150 examination-style questions.

Comprehensive graphics calculator instructions are given for Casio fx-9860G, TI-84 Plus and TI-nspire in an introductory chapter (see p. 17) and, occasionally, where additional help may be needed, more detailed instructions are available as printable pages on the CD. The extensive use of graphics calculators and computer packages throughout the book enables students to realise the importance, application, and appropriate use of technology. No single aspect of technology has been favoured. It is as important that students work with a pen and paper as it is that they use their calculator or graphics calculator, or use a spreadsheet or graphing package on computer.