2.1.1

Algebra Basics

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Algebraic Notation

In algebra, we use algebraic notation. This is a system of writing things to make them easier to understand.

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Letters

  • Letters are used to represent numbers when we do NOT know the exact value.
    • x, y and z are the most common but other letters (a, b, c etc.) are also used.
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Multiplication

  • When two or more things are written next to each other we multiply them together.
  • The exception is when all the things are numbers.
    • E.g. 36 is still 36 (NOT 3 multiplied by 6).
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Indices

  • We use indices to show when something has been multiplied by itself.
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Fractions

  • Fractions are used to show when we divide something by something else.

Jump to other topics

1Number

1.1Place Value

1.2Factors & Multiples

1.3Operations

1.4Fractions, Decimals & Percentages

1.5Growth & Decay

1.6Measurements & Units

1.7Accuracy

2Algebra

3Ratio, Proportion & Rates of Change

4Geometry & Measures

5Probability

6Statistics

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