Mapping Math: What You Should Already Know
You should be comfortable with basic arithmetic before reading this book. When I state "basic arithmetic" I'm talking about addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. All of the other mathematical topics needed to understand this book will be discussed in the book. This includes some fairly basic mathematical topics, like working with fractions and very simple algebra.
This book isn't designed for someone who took 8 years of college/university mathematics. It's designed for someone with a good junior high or high school math education. The more math you know, the easier this book will be to understand. However, you don't need to be scared away from this book if you haven't had any algebra, trigonometry, geometry or calculus. This book has everything you need to get a basic but firm understanding of the math used with maps.
However, this book doesn't discuss any one mathematical topic in great depth. It only highlights the essential parts of a mathematical topic that are related directly to maps and map making. It won't make you an expert on trigonometry, differential calculus, or spherical trigonometry. When you are done with the book you should share a common feeling with most land surveyors: That you are a jack of all trades, but a master of none!