Identify variables

A variable is a letter or symbol that represents an unknown or changing quantity in an expression or equation; its meaning is determined by the context and may take different numerical values. Learners distinguish variables from fixed constants and, in forms such as $3x+5=20$ , recognize $x$ as the variable and $3$ as its coefficient; abstract functions and advanced multivariable relationships are beyond this scope.

Detailed Explanation: Identify variables

A variable is a letter or symbol that stands for an unknown or changing number. A constant is a number that stays fixed. When a number is multiplied by a variable, it is called the variable’s coefficient.

Example

Identify the variable, coefficient, and constants in

3x+5=20

Look for the letter or symbol.
The letter is $x$ , so $x$ is the variable. Its value is unknown.
Look at the number next to the variable.
The $3$ is multiplied by $x$ , so $3$ is the coefficient of $x$ .
Identify the numbers that do not change.
The numbers $5$ and $20$ are fixed, so $5$ and $20$ are constants.

Therefore:

Variable: $x$
Coefficient: $3$
Constants: $5$ and $20$

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