MATHEMATICS
Lecture 1: Algebra Basics
A beginner-friendly lesson on simplifying algebraic expressions.
Terms and coefficients
In 5x, 5 is the coefficient and x is the variable. Terms are separated by plus or minus signs.
Like terms
Terms with the same variables and powers are like terms. Only like terms can be combined directly.
Example
3x + 5x = 8x. Likewise, 7a² − 2a² = 5a².
Remember
Before simplifying, identify which terms are actually like terms.