Best Workbook for Algebra (2026): 5 Workbooks Compared
Five algebra workbooks compared by grade level, page count, practice problem sets and answer formats, from foundational equation drills to comprehensive Algebra II.
On this page
Whether a student is tackling linear equations for the first time or reviewing before a semester final, finding the best workbook for algebra comes down to matching their current grade level and study style. Some learners need step-by-step explanations and curriculum-aligned review, while others simply need repetitive practice drills to build speed. We compared five algebra workbooks by page count, practice problem counts, publication dates and answer keys, so you can choose the right companion for your math studies.
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Quick picks
- Best Overall Algebra I Review by McCune: 500 review questions and clear step-by-step guidance aligned to standards Check price
- Best for Equation Drills Algebra Essentials by McMullen: Targeted linear and quadratic equation practice with verified answers Check price
- Best for Middle School Kumon Algebra by Wang: Step-by-step introduction to algebra topics for grades 6 through 8 Check price
- Best Self-Study Companion Algebra I Workbook by Sterling: Plain-English lessons, hundreds of practice problems and online quizzes Check price
- Best for Advanced Algebra Algebra II Review by Monahan: Over 500 problems covering quadratic relationships, functions and trigonometry Check price
Compare the picks
| Book | Shelf Score | Author | Pages | Published |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algebra I Review by McCune | 8.2/10 | Sandra Luna McCune | 288 | January 8, 2019 |
| Algebra Essentials by McMullen | 7.8/10 | Chris McMullen | 209 | July 12, 2010 |
| Kumon Algebra by Wang | 8.3/10 | Kumon Publishing, Jason Wang | 192 | November 26, 2016 |
| Algebra I Workbook by Sterling | 7.3/10 | Mary Jane Sterling | 320 | April 17, 2017 |
| Algebra II Review by Monahan | 7.0/10 | Christopher Monahan | 352 | January 25, 2019 |
Book details as published on each listing, collected 15 October 2026.
The picks
| # | Product | Shelf Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Kumon Algebra by Wang | 8.3/10 | Buy |
| 2 |  Algebra I Review by McCune | 8.2/10 | Buy |
| 3 |  Algebra Essentials by McMullen | 7.8/10 | Buy |
| 4 |  Algebra I Workbook by Sterling | 7.3/10 | Buy |
| 5 |  Algebra II Review by Monahan | 7.0/10 | Buy |
Kumon Algebra by Wang
A step-by-step workbook introducing middle school students to fractions, exponents, and foundational algebraic expressions.
Pros
- Step-by-step Kumon method guides students through new concepts without overwhelm
- Covers fractions, exponents, order of operations, and algebraic expressions
- Lists both a reading age of 11 - 13 years and a grade level of 6 and up
- 192 pages designed to build confidence in middle school math foundations
Cons
- Listing shows a minor contradiction between title Grades 6-8 and grade level 6 and up
- Covers introductory middle school algebra rather than a full high school course
- Published November 26, 2016, with no newer edition listed
- Focuses on basic algebraic expressions without advanced quadratic formulas
Detailed Review
The publisher describes this workbook as an introduction to algebra using a step-by-step method covering fractions, exponents, order of operations, positive and negative numbers, and algebraic expressions. The listing gives 192 pages, a publication date of November 26, 2016, a reading age of 11 - 13 years, and a grade level of 6 and up, though the title specifies Grades 6-8.
Who it's for: a sixth to eighth grader preparing for algebra who needs a gradual, confidence-building introduction to expressions and operations. Who should skip it: a high school student currently enrolled in Algebra I who requires quadratic equations and graphing.
Its Shelf Score of 8.3/10 comes from fit 28/35, contents and edition 21/25, value 20/25 and reading age or level 9/10.
Book Details
| Author | Kumon Publishing, Jason Wang |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Kumon Publishing North America |
| Print length | 192 pages |
| Reading age | 11 - 13 years |
| Grade level | 6 and up |
Details as published on the retailer listing, collected 15 October 2026. Editions and formats change; check the listing before you buy.
Reading Age and Edition
What this listing states. Grade level 6 and up and a reading age of 11 - 13 years, so reading age or level scores 9 of 10. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not part of the score. See How We Pick.
Check the grade and the answer key. Workbook levels differ between publishers. Confirm the grade level and whether answers are included in the book or sold separately.
Listed reading ages and grade levels are a guide, not advice about a particular reader. Editions and formats change, so check the listing before you buy. See our Reading Age Disclaimer.
Algebra I Review by McCune
A comprehensive high school Algebra I workbook with 500 review questions and lessons aligned to national standards.
Pros
- 500 practical review questions provide extensive practice
- Concise, clear explanations walk step by step through essential math concepts
- Aligned to national standards, including Common Core and Canadian standards
- 288 pages covering classroom work and standardized exam preparation
Cons
- No reading age or grade level is listed in the product specifications
- Published January 8, 2019, so check for newer curriculum updates
- Does not include online quizzes or digital practice tools
- Focuses strictly on Algebra I without covering advanced Algebra II topics
Detailed Review
The publisher describes this review guide and workbook as a tool for strengthening Algebra I knowledge, with concise explanations of essential math concepts and 500 review questions aligned to national standards. The listing gives a print length of 288 pages and a publication date of January 8, 2019, with no reading age or grade level specified in the spec table.
Who it's for: a high school student or homeschooler who wants a structured workbook with 500 practice problems mapped to standard curriculum. Who should skip it: a learner looking for pre-algebra basics or someone who wants interactive online drills.
Its Shelf Score of 8.2/10 comes from fit 33/35, contents and edition 22/25, value 22/25 and reading age or level 0/10.
Book Details
| Author | Sandra Luna McCune |
|---|---|
| Publisher | McGraw Hill |
| Print length | 288 pages |
| Published | January 8, 2019 |
| Edition | 1st |
Details as published on the retailer listing, collected 15 October 2026. Editions and formats change; check the listing before you buy.
Reading Age and Edition
What this listing states. No grade level is stated, so that criterion is not scored. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not part of the score. See How We Pick.
Check the grade and the answer key. Workbook levels differ between publishers. Confirm the grade level and whether answers are included in the book or sold separately.
Listed reading ages and grade levels are a guide, not advice about a particular reader. Editions and formats change, so check the listing before you buy. See our Reading Age Disclaimer.
Algebra Essentials by McMullen
A focused drill workbook dedicated to mastering linear and quadratic equations, cross multiplying, and systems of equations.
Pros
- Answers to 100% of the exercises are tabulated at the back of the book
- Copyright notice permits parents and teachers to make photocopies for students
- Each section begins with instructions and step-by-step example equations
- Divided into seven focused chapters covering essential equation-solving skills
Cons
- Published July 12, 2010, the oldest publication date in this list
- Contains no illustrations or pictures, focusing strictly on drills
- Not a comprehensive review, focusing only on core equation techniques
- No reading age or grade level is listed in the product specifications
Detailed Review
The author describes this workbook as practice for developing fluency in fundamental algebra skills, covering linear equations, quadratic equations, cross multiplying and systems of equations across seven chapters. The listing states a print length of 209 pages, a publication date of July 12, 2010, and notes that answers to 100% of the exercises are verified and included in the back.
Who it's for: a student from grade 7 through college who needs repetitive pencil-and-paper drills to master equation solving. Who should skip it: a visual learner who needs diagrams and word problems or a student seeking a full course review.
Its Shelf Score of 7.8/10 comes from fit 30/35, contents and edition 21/25, value 22/25 and reading age or level 0/10.
Book Details
| Author | Chris McMullen |
|---|---|
| Print length | 209 pages |
| Published | July 12, 2010 |
| Series | Improve Your Math Fluency Series (Volume 12) |
| Answer Key | Answers only |
Details as published on the retailer listing, collected 15 October 2026. Editions and formats change; check the listing before you buy.
Reading Age and Edition
What this listing states. No grade level is stated, so that criterion is not scored. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not part of the score. See How We Pick.
Check the grade and the answer key. Workbook levels differ between publishers. Confirm the grade level and whether answers are included in the book or sold separately.
Listed reading ages and grade levels are a guide, not advice about a particular reader. Editions and formats change, so check the listing before you buy. See our Reading Age Disclaimer.
Algebra I Workbook by Sterling
A high school Algebra I companion featuring plain-English explanations, hundreds of practice problems, and online chapter quizzes.
Pros
- Includes access to an online quiz bank featuring bonus chapter quizzes
- Every problem includes a full explanation demonstrating each step of the solution
- Covers fundamental concepts from fractions and FOIL to factoring and equations
- Available in both print and Kindle formats according to the listing
Cons
- Listing contradicts itself by stating 384 pages in one row and 320 print pages in another
- Listing contradicts itself with publication dates of June 2016 and April 17, 2017
- No reading age or grade level is listed in the product specifications
- Third-party or used copies may lack access to the online quiz bank
Detailed Review
The publisher describes this 3rd edition guide as a high school Algebra I companion with hundreds of practice problems, step-by-step explanations from fractions to FOIL, and access to an online quiz bank with chapter quizzes. The listing contains internal contradictions, citing 384 pages in one table entry and 320 pages in another, as well as publication dates of June 2016 and April 17, 2017.
Who it's for: a high school student who wants plain-English explanations alongside hundreds of practice problems and online quiz reinforcement. Who should skip it: a buyer purchasing a used copy that may lack the online code, or someone seeking an advanced Algebra II text.
Its Shelf Score of 7.3/10 comes from fit 29/35, contents and edition 20/25, value 20/25 and reading age or level 0/10.
Book Details
| Author | Mary Jane Sterling |
|---|---|
| Publisher | For Dummies |
| Print length | 320 pages |
| Published | April 17, 2017 |
| Edition | 3rd |
Details as published on the retailer listing, collected 15 October 2026. Editions and formats change; check the listing before you buy.
Reading Age and Edition
What this listing states. No grade level is stated, so that criterion is not scored. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not part of the score. See How We Pick.
Check the grade and the answer key. Workbook levels differ between publishers. Confirm the grade level and whether answers are included in the book or sold separately.
Listed reading ages and grade levels are a guide, not advice about a particular reader. Editions and formats change, so check the listing before you buy. See our Reading Age Disclaimer.
Algebra II Review by Monahan
An extensive Algebra II workbook providing more than 500 problems across advanced topics from polynomial functions to trigonometry.
Pros
- More than 500 math problems provide extensive practice opportunities
- Covers advanced topics including complex numbers, logarithms, and trigonometry
- Includes helpful appendixes covering matrices and probabilities
- 352 pages aligned with national and state standards for Algebra II courses
Cons
- Focuses on Algebra II, making it too advanced for students just starting algebra
- Published January 25, 2019, with no newer edition noted on the listing
- No reading age or grade level is listed in the product specifications
- Does not include access to digital drills or online study tools
Detailed Review
The publisher describes this 1st edition workbook as comprehensive preparation for Algebra II classroom work and standardized exams, with more than 500 math problems and appendixes on matrices and probabilities. The listing states a print length of 352 pages and a publication date of January 25, 2019, covering topics from linear inequalities and functions to trigonometry and statistics.
Who it's for: an upper high school student who has completed Algebra I and needs comprehensive practice on advanced second-year algebra concepts. Who should skip it: a middle schooler or student taking introductory Algebra I who has not yet mastered basic linear equations.
Its Shelf Score of 7.0/10 comes from fit 27/35, contents and edition 20/25, value 20/25 and reading age or level 0/10.
Book Details
| Author | Christopher Monahan |
|---|---|
| Publisher | McGraw Hill |
| Print length | 352 pages |
| Published | January 25, 2019 |
| Edition | 1st |
Details as published on the retailer listing, collected 15 October 2026. Editions and formats change; check the listing before you buy.
Reading Age and Edition
What this listing states. No grade level is stated, so that criterion is not scored. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not part of the score. See How We Pick.
Check the grade and the answer key. Workbook levels differ between publishers. Confirm the grade level and whether answers are included in the book or sold separately.
Listed reading ages and grade levels are a guide, not advice about a particular reader. Editions and formats change, so check the listing before you buy. See our Reading Age Disclaimer.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How we scored them
The Shelf Score weighs fit for algebra coursework, contents and edition, value, and the listed reading age or grade level where one is published. Only one of the five listings publishes an explicit reading age and grade level: Kumon gives a reading age of 11 – 13 years and grade level 6 and up. The remaining four listings do not specify a reading age or grade level in their product details. Newer editions with comprehensive problem sets score higher on contents and value. How we pick explains the weights.
| Book | Shelf Score | Fit /35 | Contents /25 | Value /25 | Age/level /10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kumon Algebra by Wang | 8.3 | 28 | 21 | 20 | 9 |
| Algebra I Review by McCune | 8.2 | 33 | 22 | 22 | 0 |
| Algebra Essentials by McMullen | 7.8 | 30 | 21 | 22 | 0 |
| Algebra I Workbook by Sterling | 7.3 | 29 | 20 | 20 | 0 |
| Algebra II Review by Monahan | 7.0 | 27 | 20 | 20 | 0 |
Scores run from 0 to 10. Reading age or level counts on a list where at least one listing gives one, and a book whose listing gives none then scores zero on it. Where no listing gives one, the score is taken over the other 85 points. Books carry no warranty, so warranty is not scored.
How to choose the best workbook for algebra
Match the book to the student’s algebra stage
Algebra workbooks target very different skill stages. Kumon Algebra-Grades 6-8 focuses on foundational middle school concepts like order of operations, fractions and positive and negative numbers. McGraw-Hill Education Algebra I Review and Workbook covers standard high school algebra topics, while McGraw-Hill Education Algebra II Review and Workbook addresses advanced concepts including polynomial functions, logarithms and trigonometry. Explore our full library of math workbooks for additional grade-level options.
Practice problem volume and question formats
Students who need speed and computational fluency benefit from repetitive problem sets. Chris McMullen’s Algebra Essentials focuses purely on equation drills across seven chapters, giving students practice with linear and quadratic equations. For broader exam preparation, the McGraw-Hill Algebra I workbook provides 500 review questions, while the Algebra II volume features more than 500 math problems.
Page count and study formats
| Book | Pages | Published | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Algebra I Review by McCune | 288 | January 8, 2019 | Algebra I review and 500 questions |
| Algebra Essentials by McMullen | 209 | July 12, 2010 | Equation fluency and drills |
| Kumon Algebra by Wang | 192 | November 26, 2016 | Middle school foundation |
| Algebra I Workbook by Sterling | 320 | April 17, 2017 | Practice and online quizzes |
| Algebra II Review by Monahan | 352 | January 25, 2019 | Advanced Algebra II topics |
Page counts range from 192 pages in Kumon to 352 pages in McGraw-Hill Algebra II. Families organizing a comprehensive homeschool curriculum often combine targeted drill books with structured textbooks. For broader subject coverage, see our top workbooks for homeschooling.
Before you buy
- Check whether an answer key is included: Chris McMullen’s workbook states answers to 100% of exercises are tabulated in the back, while others integrate solutions with step-by-step examples.
- Verify the edition and publication date on the listing: dates range from July 12, 2010 for Algebra Essentials to January 25, 2019 for McGraw-Hill Algebra II.
- Check if online access requires buying a new copy: Algebra I Workbook For Dummies includes online quiz bank access that third-party used copies may not provide.
- Review the listed grade level or reading age: Kumon lists grade level 6 and up and ages 11 – 13, whereas the other four workbooks leave grade levels unspecified in their specs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Chris McMullen algebra workbook include an answer key?
Yes. The listing states that answers to 100% of the exercises are tabulated at the back of the book, verified both by computer and independently by an international math whiz.
What age group is the Kumon Algebra workbook designed for?
The Kumon Algebra listing specifies a reading age of 11 – 13 years and a grade level of 6 and up, though the book’s title indicates Grades 6-8.
How many practice problems are in the McGraw-Hill Algebra I workbook?
The McGraw-Hill Education Algebra I Review and Workbook includes 500 practical review questions alongside concise explanations across 288 pages.
Does the Algebra I Workbook For Dummies include online practice?
Yes. The description notes that this 3rd edition includes access to an online quiz bank featuring bonus chapter quizzes to help check understanding.
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