Introduction to Algebra: Common Terms Explained

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Reading Math resources for Algebra is as wise as practicing writing – the more you practice, the more you improve your problem solving skills.  But first, it’s important to define top Algebra terms to get a better understanding of how things work. 

Expressions are mathematical terms or sums or differences of mathematical terms that may use variables, or numbers, or both.  Examples of expressions are: 4, x, 2 + 5, 2xy + 3, 2 + 6x (6 – 2), z + 3x (8 – z).

Variables are symbols that represent a number.  Typically, we use letters such as x, t, or n for variables.  For example, X stands for one side of a right triangle.  It’s helpful to use a letter that represents the variable it stands for.

Examples:

Let x be the number of cars in a parking lot, let n be the time it takes for a car to travel from point A to point B. 

Equations are a statement expressing the equality of two numbers.  We use equations to relate numbers and variables.  Many problems in Algebra may be written down as equations easily with little practice, and there are simple rules to simplify equations.

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