coefficient – the number used to multiply a variable

(pronounced koh-if-fih-shunt)

To remember the meaning of coefficient, use the following mnemonic:

The coat sizing was efficient (coefficient), the number was used to multiply the variables.

The coat sizing was efficient (coefficient), the number was used to multiply the variable.

A coefficient is a numerical or constant factor that multiplies a variable or variables in an algebraic expression or equation.

Example 1

4x-7=5, 4 is the coefficient in this example

4 is the coefficient in the above equation.

Example 2

4x+2x-3x+1 in this example there are 3 coefficients

Here we have three coefficients 4, 2 and -3.

Example 3

Coefficient numbers are always shown in front of a variable

Coefficients are fundamental in algebra because they tell us the magnitude and direction (positive or negative) of the relationship between variables and they're essential for solving equations.