Algebraic vocabulary
Identify the parts of an algebraic expression.
Objective
Identify the parts of an algebraic expression.
What it means
A term is a number, variable, or product of numbers and variables. A coefficient is the number multiplying a variable. A constant is a term with no variable.
Key terms
- Term
- A single number or product separated by + or - in an expression.
- Coefficient
- The numeric factor of a term with a variable.
- Constant
- A term that is just a number, with no variable.
Rules to remember
- Terms are separated by + or - signs.
- A variable with no written number has a coefficient of 1.
Step by step
- 1Split into termsBreak the expression at each + or - sign.
- 2Label each termSay whether it has a variable (coefficient) or not (constant).
Common mistakes
- Forgetting a variable with no visible number still has coefficient 1.
- Miscounting terms when signs are missed.
Tips
- Read the sign in front of a term as part of that term.