Definition
Coefficient
The numerical factor multiplying the variable part of an algebraic term.
What it means
In a variable term, separate the number factor from the variable part. The number factor is the coefficient. If only x is written, its hidden coefficient is 1; for −x, it is −1.
Remember it
The coefficient is the number factor attached to the variable part.
Example
In −3m²n, the variable part m²n is multiplied by −3, so the coefficient is −3. In x, the coefficient is 1.
Watch for
In 5x³, the coefficient is 5, not 3. The 3 is an exponent telling how many factors of x are multiplied.
Common mix-up
A coefficient multiplies the variable part; an exponent tells how many times a factor is used.
Exact meaning
The coefficient of a variable term is the numerical factor multiplying its variable part.