Basic Algebra Notes

I. Introduction

• Algebra is a branch of mathematics that uses symbols and letters to represent

numbers and relationships between them.
• It is used to solve mathematical problems and to model real-world situations.
• Algebraic concepts and skills are fundamental to many areas of mathematics,
science, and technology.

II. Variables and Expressions

• A variable is a letter or symbol used to represent a number.

• Variables are commonly used to represent unknown values in mathematical
expressions.
• An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and mathematical
operations (e.g. 2x + 3).

III. Order of Operations (PEMDAS)

• When simplifying expressions, it is important to follow the order of operations to

ensure that the correct answer is obtained.
• The acronym PEMDAS stands for parentheses, exponents, multiplication and
division, and addition and subtraction.
• Parentheses: expressions inside parentheses should be simplified first.
• Exponents: raise variables to their powers before performing any other
operations.
• Multiplication and Division: perform these operations from left to right.
• Addition and Subtraction: perform these operations from left to right.

IV. Solving Equations

• An equation is a statement that two expressions are equal (e.g. 2x + 3 = 7).

• To solve an equation, isolate the variable by performing operations on both sides
of the equation to make the variable the subject.
• The solution to an equation is the value of the variable that makes the equation
true.

V. Graphing
 • Algebra can also be used to graph relationships between variables.
• A graph represents the solution set of an equation as a set of points on a
coordinate plane.
• The x-axis represents the values of the independent variable and the y-axis
represents the values of the dependent variable.
• Graphing can be used to visualize patterns, identify trends, and make predictions.

VI. Polynomials

• A polynomial is an expression that consists of variables and coefficients, with

positive whole number exponents (e.g. 2x^2 + 3x + 4).
• Polynomials can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided using specific rules
and techniques.
• The degree of a polynomial is the highest exponent in the expression.
• The factorization of a polynomial involves finding a common factor and factoring
it out to simplify the expression.

VII. Quadratic Equations

• A quadratic equation is an equation in the form of ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b,

and c are constants and x is the variable.
• Quadratic equations can be solved using a variety of methods, including
factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic formula.
• The solutions to a quadratic equation can be real or complex numbers, and the
graph of a quadratic equation is a parabola.

VIII. Conclusion

• Basic algebra is a foundational part of mathematics that provides the tools to

solve mathematical problems and model real-world situations.
• Understanding algebra and its applications is important for a wide range of
careers and disciplines, including engineering, science, economics, and more.
• Mastering algebra requires practice, persistence, and a solid understanding of its
concepts and principles.