Math Dictionary / Coefficient

Coefficient

A coefficient is the number multiplied by a variable in a term.

AlgebraGrade 6Grade 7Grade 8Algebra 1GEDSATACT

What it means

In 7x, the coefficient is 7.

Also called: number factor

Examples

In 4a, the coefficient is 4
In -3x, the coefficient is -3
In x, the coefficient is 1

Common mistake

If a variable has no written number, the coefficient is 1, not 0.

Try one

Question: What is the coefficient of -9y?

Show answer

-9.

Related terms

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