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Maths
Summary
Algebra uses a combination of letters and numbers to derive expressions called terms. It helps to find unknown quantities. If there is an unknown quantity, start by giving it a letter name, e.g. . This can then be used in an expression, equation or formula.
Algebraic terms which have the same letter are called 'like terms' and can be added or subtracted, e.g. . This is called simplifying. If terms have different letters, or a different combination of letters, they cannot be added or subtracted, e.g. cannot be simplified further.
Note: Take care with negatives. The subtract sign belongs to the term it sits in front of. E.g. In , the subtract sign belongs to .
Terms are a combination of numbers and letters. The number indicates how many times you count the unknown quantity, which is often described by a letter.
Note: You can put a multiplication sign between the number and the letter, but it can also be omitted.
| TERM | SIMPLIFIED |
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