A coefficient is a number placed before and multiplying another quantity known or unknown.

• Given 2x  we say that 2 is the coefficient of x.
• Given 3x²  we say that 3 is the coefficient of x².
• Given 5×25  we say that 5 is the coefficient of 25.
• Given 3a³b²  we say that 3 is the coefficient of a³b².
• 2(a+b+c)   we say that 2 is the coefficient of (a+b+c).

Definition of Like Terms

In Algebra like terms are terms that have the same variables and powers.
The coefficients do not need to match.

Please add the like terms in the columns below.

• −2x²+3x −4
•   5x²−7x −6
•     x²  +x +1
•   4x² −3x−9
• Solution