One definition of mathematics is the science of patterns. Patterns are all around us and the human brain is wired to recognize them. Pre-calculus uses the formal concept of functions to identify and describe patterns found in data, patterns expressed as a formula, and patterns identified visually in a graph. The emphasis of the course is on developing a conceptual understanding of the definition of a function, the characteristics of important function families, connections to real life, and how the study of functions facilitates the understanding of calculus. A focus on problem solving strategies, such as drawing diagrams, systematic lists, looking for patterns, matrix logic, unit analysis, estimation, and others, further develop students’ skills in quantitative reasoning.