Algebraic expressions are widely used in mathematics, physics, engineering sciences, economy, etc.

An algebraic expression is composed of terms each of which is the product of variables and constants.

A constant is a quantity assumed to be unchanged throughout a given discussion.

A variable is a symbol used to represent a quantity that may assume a set of given values.

The variables of a term are said to be literal factors; the product of the constants of a term is called the coefficient of the term. A constant term contains only constant factors.

For example, the below algebraic expression

is composed of the terms, whose coefficients are, respectively, 7, –8, 5, and –1.

Terms are called similar or like if they contain the same combination of variables, no matter coefficients of the terms.
Terms can be combined by adding the coefficients of similar terms.

To evaluate an algebraic expression means to find its numerical value by substituting the given values of the variables.

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