Ever feel lost in a sea of equations and symbols? Math can seem like a foreign language! This quick glossary will help you navigate the mathematical landscape and understand some essential terms.
**Variable:** A symbol (usually a letter like 'x' or 'y') that represents an unknown number or value.
**Coefficient:** The number that multiplies a variable (e.g., in 3x, 3 is the coefficient).
**Equation:** A statement that two expressions are equal, shown with an equals sign (=). Example: x + 2 = 5.
**Function:** A relationship between inputs and outputs, where each input has only one output.
**Theorem:** A statement that has been proven true based on previously established facts.
**Algorithm:** A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem.
This is just a starting point! As you delve deeper into math, you'll encounter many more terms. Don't be afraid to look them up and build your mathematical vocabulary. Understanding the language is the first step to mastering the subject!