What is algebra?

Algebra is an area of math that involves solving problems to figure out the relationships between things. But instead of using only numbers to write and solve problems, at times symbols, such as letters, are used! Algebra involves equations, or collections of numbers, symbols and signs, often claiming that two things are equal. 

For example, an algebra problem may read: x + 2 = 4. But what does “x” stand for, anyway?! A person solving this problem would need to find out “which number plus two equals four." If you’ve solved addition problems before, you may already know that the answer is “2,” since 2 + 2 = 4!   

But it’s not always that simple! Often both sides of the equation will need to be changed in some way to get the answer. For example, you may need to subtract, add, or divide on each side. Some algebra even involves graphing! Is this sounding a bit like something big kids do?! You’re right--algebra is studied by kids high school and college! However, algebra is often learned in earlier grades as well. Many careers, such as accounting and engineering, require the regular use of algebra.