Algebraic Expressions
Algebraic Functions
Algebraic properties
Linear algebra
Mathematical identities
Operations with expressions
Polynomials
Systems of Equations

Algebra Courses

Our collection of algebra courses includes essential concepts in pre-algebra, high school algebra, including Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, linear algebra, and boolean algebra.

Comprehensive lessons, activities, and supporting videos help students develop computational, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Study.com's algebra courses save curriculum planning time for teachers and homeschool instructors with a library of standards-aligned questions and activities.

Explore our full library of algebra courses:
Math 101: College Algebra
Algebra I: High School
Algebra II: High School
Algebra for Kids
Create an account to begin studying Algebra
Used by over 30 million students worldwide
Create An Account

What is Algebra?

Algebra is defined as a branch of mathematics that uses symbols to describe abstract properties and relationships. In algebra, a symbol known as a variable is used to represent an unknown quantity. The mathematical expression or equation is manipulated to figure out the unknown value. The core principle of algebra is balance.

The five branches of Algebra include elementary algebra, advanced algebra, abstract algebra, communicative algebra, and linear algebra. Each branch is connected and overlaps like all branches of mathematics. Algebraic concepts can be traced back to ancient Babylonia. The name Algebra was derived later from al-jabr, which means a reunion of broken parts or completion. The name comes from the published work of a mathematician named Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi.

Algebra is a central topic in mathematics beyond arithmetic. A strong understanding of algebra concepts creates entry points to advanced mathematics. Many fundamental concepts in algebra are necessary for geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.

Learning to read, write, and model with algebra is essential to understanding math concepts deeply. Algebra learning is a core part of comprehensive math education. Pre-algebra concepts are typically part of an upper elementary and middle school curriculum. Students develop a foundational understanding of operations with rational numbers, ratios, expressions, and graphing. Most schools in the United States offer Algebra 1 to students beginning in ninth grade, followed by geometry or Algebra 2. Algebra 1 is also offered as an advanced course for eighth-grade students in some schools. Algebra 1 includes a study of functions and writing, solving, and modeling equations.

Algebra Lessons and Skills

Our Algebra Lessons and Skills section provides thousands of algebra practice problems. Algebra Lessons and Skills is designed to support students in developing algebraic reasoning and problem-solving skills. Resources include step-by-step tutorial videos and practice questions to aid students in reviewing and mastering math concepts. Teachers and students can access the entire library of Study.com's math resources to review concepts from previous grades and preview more advanced concepts for later grades.

In alignment with math standards, the Algebra Lessons and Skills section provides in-depth learning on seeing structure in expressions, interpreting data, and analyzing functions. As with all mathematics, students must use reasoning and analytical skills to find solutions. Students apply the standards of mathematical practice in their problem-solving. Real-world situations create a context for students while learning and applying math skills. Models, graphs, and charts are included where applicable to support student learning.

Learners can review vocabulary, view video and text explanations, and complete practice problems at their own pace. Students can receive extra support for any algebra skill. For practice tests, students receive immediate feedback and can track their progress toward their goals. Students are required to review step-by-step clarification on incorrect questions. For assessments, students receive clarification of solutions once the testing window has closed.

Study.com's Algebra Lessons and Skills section is structured to save educators time. View sample questions and instructional resources for each standard. Sort the collection by topic or Texas, New York, or Florida math standards. Teachers can select specific questions or assign general questions for a topic. Algebra Lessons and Skills resources can be printed or assigned digitally on Study.com. With a few quick clicks, teachers can post assignments seamlessly on Google Classroom, Canvas, or Schoology. Use the teacher dashboard to track student progress, including whether students have started or completed an assignment. Use the student data from the dashboard to decide which students need additional support, which students are ready to dive deeper into a concept, and what topics need to be revisited. Use these resources for daily instruction, to prepare students for tests, assign extra support materials, or assign assessments.

Algebra Tutors

Study.com has partnered with the award-winning Tutoring team at Enhanced Prep to bring you personalized online Algebra tutoring. Discover a unique tutoring program to get you the grade, score, or school.

Enhanced Prep provides a truly customizable approach to tutoring, focusing on each student's specific needs. Students are matched with the right tutor who can help them study for a Algebra test one day and prep for their upcoming college entrance exam the next.

Enhanced Prep professional tutors have a minimum of 5 years' experience helping students get into their dream schools. Other leading services require as little as half a year of experience.

No two students are the same. Tutors create a unique game plan for each student following an assessment of their individual strengths and weaknesses.

Study.com Tutoring Membership
Get tutoring help