Understand basic terminology. Algebra consists of solving for variables using expressions or equations. An expression uses numbers, variables or both. Some examples of expressions are 3, x, 2 + 5 and 3 + 2 (y). Variables are unknown numbers that are represented by letters.
Learn the order of operations. Operations are mathematical functions that include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. When completing an algebra equation, first calculate any expressions within parentheses. Next, perform any multiplication and division steps going from left to right. Lastly, add and subtract any expressions from left to right.
Combine like terms. Any parts of the expression or equation that are "like" are added or subtracted. For example, if an expression is: 2x + 3 + 5x -- 1; the 2x and 5x are added to make 7x and the -1 is subtracted from the 3 to yield an answer of 2. The expression after combining like terms is: 7x + 2.
Move expressions to opposite sides of the equal sign. Many algebra problems consist of an equation. In the equation there is an equal sign which represents that both sides are equal. For example, if you have an equation that states: y -- 5 = 0, you can move expressions from side to side to solve. The rule is that you must perform the same thing to each side. In order to solve for the variable "y," you must add 5 to each side. By doing this, you are keeping the equation balanced and when 5 is added on the left side, the -- 5 cancels out leaving only "y." By adding 5 to the right side, you discover the answer is: y = 5.
Learn the property of distribution. This takes place when there is a number or variable next to parentheses and involves multiplication. For example if you have: 3(x + 2); to use this property, multiply the 3 by each expression within the parentheses. Your answer becomes 3x + 6.