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In my experience, algebra is one of the biggest stumbling blocks to calculus students. For instance, sign errors are common, and exponent laws (and log laws!) cause a lot of headaches.

Many courses have algebra pre-tests to let students know if they are "prepared" or not; however, these pre-tests often cover material that has nothing to do with the course itself.

Is there any published information on what algebra skills and techniques are most important for student success in calculus?

(I saw this question, but it covered a different aspect of the issue).