Year 7: Coefficients and Constants

What is a Coefficient?

A coefficient is the number that multiplies a variable. It's written directly before the variable.

Examples:

• In 3x, the coefficient is 3
• In -2y, the coefficient is -2
• In x (no number shown), the coefficient is 1

What is a Constant?

A constant is a number that stands alone with no variable attached. It doesn't change.

Examples:

• In 2x + 5, the constant is 5
• In 7a - 3, the constant is -3
• In 9, the number itself is a constant

How to Identify Them

Step 1: Look for letters (variables) in the expression
Step 2: The number in front of each variable is its coefficient
Step 3: Any number standing alone is a constant