Algebra

Algebra is the branch of mathematics dealing with unknown values. Sometimes we have to uncover the unknown values, and sometimes we simply manipulate them to get an equation we know is true even without knowing the hidden value. These hidden values, called variables, can change, as the name suggests, and they are everywhere in math and coding. However, Algebra is not so simple, so it extends past the study of these variables. It also includes the study of functions, proportions, inequalities, and complex numbers, which will be discussed in detail in their own sub-sections. This page is used to introduce all of these parts in minimum detail. 

Students in the US usually begin their algebra journey at around fifth or sixth grade. From there to eighth grade, most students will learn what is known as pre-algebra, which is essentially the bridge between arithmetic and algebra. This course mainly focuses on simple parts of algebra, like proportions, ratios, exponents (technically arithmetic but is arguably algebra), and linear equations. Starting from eighth or ninth grade, US students start algebra with algebra 1, an introduction to algebra that teaches the more advanced parts, like quadratics, polynomials, inequalities, and complex numbers, along with others. After that, in ninth to eleventh grade, Algebra 2 is taught, and it focuses on more advanced polynomials, more advanced everything. Algebra extends deeper than that, but it is not taught in most non-university schools (and is not taught here as it is edited by a bunch of idiots). You can think of algebra as a handy tool kit that can help you solve problems like "Little Johny had a farm full of dodos which have two legs and one head and krakens which have eight legs and one head. In total, there were 500 heads and 2600 legs. How many dodos were there?"

 Disclaimer: This is an encyclopedia, not a course to help you learn algebra. If you want support for your algebra, this is not the place. However, if you wish to try to get a head-start on Algebra and study it lightly, you can follow our advised sequence for learning it (IT IS NOT FINISHED NOR PUBLISHED YET). If you want to review a topic for a math competition, you need a refresher because you finished algebra years ago, or you want to challenge, your brain, you do not have to follow the advised sequence.