Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A coefficient is a numerical factor in front of variables in an algebraic expression or equation. It indicates how many times that variable appears or needs to be multiplied.
Related terms
Variable: A variable is an unknown value represented by letters or symbols in mathematical expressions or equations.
Constant term: A constant term refers to any fixed value in an algebraic expression that does not change.
Linear equation: A linear equation is an equation that represents a straight line when graphed and has variables raised to the power of 1.