algebra (introduction and POV)

What is the missing number?

-

2

=

4

OK, the answer is 6, right? Because 6 − 2 = 4. Easy stuff.

Well, in Algebra we don't use blank boxes, we use a letter (usually an x or y, but any letter is fine). So we write:

x

-

2

=

4

It is really that simple. The letter (in this case an x) just means "we don't know this yet", and is often called the unknown or the variable.

source:mathisfun.com

point of view (meena):

for me, since i'm only in 5th grade, and i don't have much of an experience in algebra but since my sister is in 3rd year highschool, i get to read her books and i think that algebra is cool and easy if you enjoy studying it. once you get to enjoy it, it'll be easier for you to understand it.