All Math Words Dictionary is a comprehensive reference work developed specifically for middle and high school students studying pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, intermediate algebra, pre-calculus, and calculus. The dictionary was designed according to the four guiding principles, known as the "Four C’s", of effective mathematical communication:

• Concise: Definitions are presented in a clear and compact manner without sacrificing clarity.
• Complete: The dictionary includes all terms and phrases relevant to the intended curriculum, along with additional entries that extend slightly beyond standard classroom content. It also contains tables of symbols and notations, formulas, measurement units, and lists of mathematical object properties, equipping students with the tools necessary to grasp core concepts and solve a wide range of problems.
• Correct: Each definition has undergone thorough review to ensure mathematical and grammatical accuracy.
• Comprehensible: The language and structure of the definitions are tailored to be accessible to the target audience. Ample illustrations are included to enhance understanding through visual context.

A significant barrier many students face in learning mathematics stems from the specialized language, both written and spoken, that surrounds mathematical concepts. Those who acquire fluency in this language are generally successful in mathematics, while those who do not often struggle significantly. All Math Words Dictionary is designed to facilitate the acquisition of this essential mathematical vocabulary.

The dictionary features:

• Over 3,600 defined entries,
• More than 200 notations,
• In excess of 1,300 illustrations,
• An International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) pronunciation guide,
• More than 1,400 formulas, equations, examples, identities, and expressions.

The author, David E. McAdams, a retired high school mathematics instructor, observed that many students failed to comprehend even basic mathematical statements, such as "This equation is determinate" due to gaps in vocabulary. These students often became discouraged and disengaged from the learning process. In response, Mr. McAdams incorporated vocabulary-building exercises into his teaching. However, he soon discovered that existing online and print resources were either incomplete or written at a post-graduate level, and thus unsuitable for his students.

Initially, Mr. McAdams began compiling a vocabulary resource aligned with the textbooks used in his classroom. This list of terms quickly expanded beyond the scope of what could be developed while maintaining a full teaching schedule. Recognizing the vast and often underappreciated breadth of mathematics vocabulary necessary for true fluency, Mr. McAdams committed himself fully to the task. After more than ten years of dedicated work, he completed the third edition of All Math Words Dictionary.

The vocabulary list was compiled from a wide range of textbooks used in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Each term was rigorously researched to ensure accurate and contextually appropriate usage in pre-algebra through calculus courses. Definitions were then crafted with precision to adhere to the Four C’s: concise, complete, correct, and comprehensible.

Special consideration was given to the needs of non-native English speakers, with pronunciation guides provided using the International Phonetic Alphabet.

Understanding the pedagogical power of imagery, Mr. McAdams included numerous illustrations to help students visualize and internalize mathematical concepts.

The result of this extensive labor is a uniquely valuable educational tool, now available in four tailored editions to meet diverse learning needs:

• Color Classroom Edition: Features 14-point Times New Roman font and full-color illustrations. Ideal for all settings, especially effective due to the use of red highlights to guide visual attention. Available in both paperback and hardback formats.
• Home Edition: Printed in 10-point Times New Roman, suitable for home study. Offered in both color and black-and-white paperback versions.
• Large Print Edition: Designed for visually impaired students, typeset in 16-point Tiresias LP font with enlarged black-and-white illustrations. Available in paperback and hardback.
• Dyslexic Edition: Typeset in Open Dyslexic font with black-and-white illustrations, providing enhanced readability. Available in paperback and hardback.

When budget permits, Mr. McAdams strongly recommends either the Color Classroom Edition or the Color Home Edition, as the color highlights significantly enhance comprehension of the terms being defined, as red is used to highlight the primary concept.