i remember those E things. They just stand for 'sum of'. I'll have to get my old notes out and have a look
just to double check.
f you post me a link to the sort of algebra you're faced with, I can know whether or not I can help you.
EDIT: I think what you should do is meet me on an irc channel somewhere, and I'll try to actively teach you. I need to know how much you know, and what areas you need to be introduced to.