Mastering MAC 1140: Precalculus Algebra at UF

Why MAC 1140 Matters (And Where It Can Trip You Up)

MAC 1140—Precalculus Algebra—is the algebra-focused precalculus course at the University of Florida. You build on college algebra with deeper function concepts: transformations, polynomial and rational functions (zeros, asymptotes, end behavior), exponential and logarithmic functions, and often systems of equations and analytic geometry. It’s the standard prep for calculus at UF (MAC 2311 or MAC 2233), and the pace and depth can feel like a real step up from MAC 1105. I'm a UF alumnus and I teach and tutor math now; this guide is for both students in the class and parents who want to support them. It answers the questions I hear most and gives you concrete ways to study, when to get help, and where to find it.

Is Precalculus Algebra at UF Really That Much Harder Than College Algebra?

Parent: My student got through MAC 1105. Should we expect the same in 1140, or is the jump bigger?

Student: I’ve heard precalculus is where people start struggling. Is that true?

For many students, MAC 1140 is a step up from college algebra: more emphasis on function behavior (domain, range, asymptotes, end behavior), more complex polynomial and rational work, and a faster pace. The ideas aren’t brand new—you’re extending what you did in 1105—but the problems get harder and the exams often mix several topics in one question. The students who do well usually keep up with homework from day one, get comfortable with “what does the graph do as $x \to \pm\infty$ ?” and with exponential/log rules, and don’t wait until the night before an exam to get help. It’s very manageable with the right approach; catching up is possible with targeted practice and a few focused sessions.

What MAC 1140 Actually Covers

MAC 1140 is typically 3 credits. Prerequisites are usually college algebra (e.g. MAC 1105) or ALEKS placement; check UF’s current requirements. Syllabi vary by instructor, but the core is fairly consistent:

Functions in depth — domain, range, function notation, transformations (shifts, stretches, reflections), composition and inverse functions.
Polynomial functions — zeros, multiplicity, end behavior, factoring, and graphing. The connection between algebraic form and graph shape.
Rational functions — domain, vertical and horizontal (or slant) asymptotes, zeros, and sketching. Often a focus on “what happens as $x \to \pm\infty$ ?”
Exponential and logarithmic functions — definitions, properties, solving exponential and log equations, applications (e.g. growth, decay).
Systems of equations — solving linear and sometimes nonlinear systems; substitution and elimination; applications.
Coordinate geometry and analytic applications — conics (circle, parabola, ellipse, hyperbola) or other analytic topics depending on the instructor.

At UF, Exam 1 often hits function concepts and polynomial behavior; Exam 2 hits rational functions, exponential/log, and maybe systems. The final is often cumulative. Nailing function transformations and “find the asymptotes” early sets you up for the rest.

When Are the Exams? When’s the Best Time to Get Help?

Parent: When do they usually have exams? I’d like to suggest getting a tutor before the first one, not after a bad grade.

Student: I’m already lost. Is it too late to get help before the final?

Typical structure (always confirm with your syllabus): two or three midterms plus a final. Best times to get help:

Before Exam 1: Focus on function concepts (domain, range, transformations) and polynomial zeros and end behavior. One or two focused sessions can make the first exam feel much more manageable.
Before Exam 2: This is where rational functions (asymptotes, sketching) and exponential/log pile up. Get clear on “when do I get a horizontal vs slant asymptote?” and on solving exponential and log equations. Catching up here prevents the second half from feeling overwhelming.
Before the final: The final is often cumulative. Prioritize function behavior, polynomial and rational functions, and exponential/log rules and solving. It’s not too late—a lot of students I work with do a short final-prep block and still improve a lot.

Where Students Get Stuck

Function behavior: transformations, domain, range

Transformations follow consistent rules (inside the function = horizontal; outside = vertical; negative = reflection). Domain for rational functions means “where the denominator is zero”; for log functions, “argument > 0.” Practice a few “state the domain and range” and “sketch the transformed graph” problems until the pattern is clear.

Polynomial and rational functions: zeros and asymptotes

For polynomials: factor to find zeros; leading term determines end behavior. For rational functions: vertical asymptotes where the denominator is zero (and numerator isn’t); horizontal asymptote from comparing degrees (same degree → ratio of leading coefficients; bottom degree higher → 0; top higher → no horizontal, check for slant). Practice “find all asymptotes and zeros, then sketch” — that’s the core of most exam questions.

Exponential and logarithmic functions

Exponentials: $a^x$ and $e^x$ ; the fact that $\ln$ and $e$ undo each other. Logarithms: definition and the product/quotient/power rules. Solving equations: rewrite in exponential form or take log of both sides; watch for extraneous solutions. Practice a few “solve for $x$ ” and “simplify” problems until the steps feel automatic.

Systems of equations

Substitution (solve one equation for one variable, plug into the other) or elimination (add/subtract equations to eliminate a variable). For nonlinear systems, substitution is usually the way. Write down what you know and what you’re solving for before manipulating.

Applications and word problems

Translate the situation into functions or equations—identify what varies and what you’re solving for. Then use the algebra you’ve learned. Start with “what do I know?” and “what do I need?”; that structure helps on exams.

Can They Still Pass If They’re Already Behind?

Parent: My student bombed the first exam. Is it still possible to pass?

Student: I’m failing right now. What do I do?

Yes. Grades are usually weighted (e.g. midterms 50%, final 30%, homework 20%—check your syllabus). That means:

The final often counts a lot and is cumulative. Doing well on it can pull up a low midterm.
Homework is “free” points if you do it; don’t skip it.
Dropped lowest quiz or similar policies can help—use them.

The key is to stop guessing and start targeting. Figure out the 2–3 topics that show up most on past exams (often function behavior, rational functions, exponential/log) and focus there. One or two tutoring sessions focused on those can turn confusion into a clear process. Catching up is very possible; waiting until the last week is not ideal but still worth doing.

Study Strategies That Work

Do homework the same day (or next day) the material is covered. Letting it pile up makes precalculus feel impossible.
Go to office hours with specific questions (“I don’t get when to use long division for slant asymptotes”) and one or two problems you attempted.
Practice “find the asymptotes and zeros” for rational functions and “solve for $x$ ” for exponential/log. Then sketch one or two graphs by hand and check with Desmos.
Use past exams if your instructor posts them. They show what’s really emphasized (often rational functions, exponential/log, and function behavior).
Use free online resources. Khan Academy – Precalculus is topic-by-topic and free; Paul’s Online Math Notes – Algebra and Desmos are great for a second pass and for checking graphs. We don’t have precalculus algebra notes on the site yet—targeted tutoring plus these resources works well.
Form a study group and take turns explaining asymptotes or solving an exponential equation. Teaching someone else forces you to understand.

Key Resources for MAC 1140 at UF

Online (start here)

We don’t have a precalculus algebra course on the site yet. Until then, these free resources are the best place to reinforce lecture and practice:

Khan Academy – Precalculus — functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and log. Use it alongside your class: after a lecture, do the corresponding unit and a few exercises.
Paul’s Online Math Notes – Algebra — clear written notes and examples when you need a second explanation.
Desmos Graphing Calculator — type in functions and see graphs; use it to check asymptotes and transformations.

At UF

UF Math Department — course info, sometimes past syllabi.
Broward Teaching Center — tutoring and study support.
UF Libraries Course Reserves — your textbook and sometimes solution manuals or extra materials.

Books

Stewart/Redlin/Watson’s Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus and Sullivan’s Precalculus (or Precalculus: Enhanced with Graphing Utilities) are common at UF; the examples align with what you’ll see in 1140.

How I Tutor MAC 1140

I’m a UF alumnus (MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering) and I teach math at Santa Fe College. When students or parents reach out about MAC 1140, we usually focus on:

Function concepts — domain, range, transformations, and “what does the graph do?” so you’re not guessing on exam problems.
Polynomial and rational functions — zeros, asymptotes, end behavior, and sketching. The setup is most of the battle.
Exponential and logarithmic functions — rules and solving equations; connecting to applications when your class does.
Systems and applications — setting up and solving systems; translating word problems into equations.
Connecting the math to your class so you’re ready for your professor’s exams and wording, and prepared for calculus.

Sessions are online, and we tailor them to where you are: catching up after a bad exam, prepping for the final, or staying ahead week by week. A lot of students do a few sessions before Exam 1 and again before Exam 2; others prefer regular weekly sessions. Either way, the goal is to make the material clear and to give you a process you can use on your own.

What Students Say After Getting Targeted Help

"I was overwhelmed by the pace of MAC 1140 until I started working with Zachary. His clear explanations and step-by-step approach helped me catch up and then excel in the course." — UF Student

"Zachary really knows his stuff! He has helped me so much with my calculus. Very helpful and patient. Well versed and knowledgeable. He has really helped me level up my skills." — Michelle G., Calculus 1

"Zachary is very knowledgeable, patient, and understanding. I would recommend anybody who is struggling with calculus. Calculus is not an easy subject so it's nice to find a tutor who understands what you are going through." — Marjorie S., Calculus

Bottom Line

MAC 1140 at UF is precalculus algebra—functions in depth, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and log, and the algebraic foundation for calculus. Stay on top of homework, get function behavior and rational functions down before Exam 2, and don’t wait until the night before an exam to get help. Use office hours, free online resources (Khan Academy, Paul’s Notes, Desmos), your textbook, and—if you want someone who knows the course and can tailor sessions to your syllabus—targeted tutoring. Whether you’re preparing for the first exam or the final, focusing on the right topics and having a clear process makes a real difference.

If you’re a UF student (or the parent of one) and you want that kind of focused support for MAC 1140, you can schedule a session here. I work with Gators every semester and would be glad to help you or your student get through Precalculus Algebra with confidence.