Algebra Basics - Study Guide
1. What is Algebra?
Algebra is the branch of mathematics that uses symbols (usually letters) to represent numbers in
equations and formulas. It's about finding the unknown and understanding how variables relate to
each other.
2. Algebraic Expressions
An algebraic expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations (like +, -, ×, ÷).
Example: 3x + 5 is an expression where 'x' is the variable.
3. Solving Equations
To solve an equation means to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.
Example: Solve 3x + 5 = 11
Step 1: Subtract 5 from both sides -> 3x = 6
Step 2: Divide by 3 -> x = 2
4. Practice Problems
1) 2x + 7 = 15
2) 5y - 3 = 2
3) 4a + 8 = 0
4) 10 = 2z + 4
Page 1
1. What is Algebra?
Algebra is the branch of mathematics that uses symbols (usually letters) to represent numbers in
equations and formulas. It's about finding the unknown and understanding how variables relate to
each other.
2. Algebraic Expressions
An algebraic expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations (like +, -, ×, ÷).
Example: 3x + 5 is an expression where 'x' is the variable.
3. Solving Equations
To solve an equation means to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.
Example: Solve 3x + 5 = 11
Step 1: Subtract 5 from both sides -> 3x = 6
Step 2: Divide by 3 -> x = 2
4. Practice Problems
1) 2x + 7 = 15
2) 5y - 3 = 2
3) 4a + 8 = 0
4) 10 = 2z + 4
Page 1
