Linear algebra is relatively easy for students during the early stages of the course, when the material is presented in a familiar, concrete setting. But when abstract concepts are introduced, students often hit a brick wall. Instructors seem to agree that certain concepts (such as linear independence, spanning, subspace, vector space, and linear transformations), are not easily understood, and require time to assimilate. Since they are fundamental to the study of linear algebra, students" understanding of these concepts is vital to their mastery of the subject. David Lay introduces these concepts early in a familiar, concrete Rn setting, develops them gradually, and returns to them again and again throughout the text so that when discussed in the abstract, these concepts are more accessible. Note: This is the standalone book, if you want the book/access card order the ISBN below. 0321399145 / 9780321399144 Linear Algebra plus MyMathLab Getting Started Kit for Linear Algebra and Its Applications Package consists of: 0321385179 / 9780321385178 Linear Algebra and Its Applications 0321431308 / 9780321431301 MyMathLab/MyStatLab -- Glue-in Access Card 0321654064 / 9780321654069 MyMathLab Inside Star Sticker