Algebra is a branch of mathematics in which arithmetic operations are generalized and applied to variable quantities and specific numbers. In our schooldays, we use algebra to solve polynomial equations, whereas professional mathematicians, physicists, economists, and computer engineers use algebra to study abstract mathematical structures with the properties of addition and multiplication.

Both elementary and higher algebra stipulate that only a certain number of quantities should be involved in the calculations, and the calculations should end after a certain number of steps. Both forms of algebra are abstract in nature, using letters to represent variables.

Modern algebra, which has been used in the 20th century to solve so many mathematical and scientific problems, evolved from the work of the 19th-century French mathematician, Evariste Galois. Many algebraic concepts, such as the theory of groups, have influenced fields such as quantum physics, whereas computer science is totally based on Boolean algebra. Psychologists and economists use matrices and linear algebra in linear programming.

However, before any child can dream of becoming a mathematician, economist, physicist, computer scientist, or psychologist, they have to study algebra in school. This is when most students learn about the various classes of numbers and also learn how to solve algebraic equations.

Although math teachers do their best and show students how each kind of problem should be solved, most students who have just begun algebra find it a difficult subject because they need to be attentive when studying a problem, careful when writing an equation, and precise when solving it. Moreover, as a student, you may find it easy to solve an algebra equation in class, but may have problems while doing your algebra homework. Your parents would love to help you, but may not be very comfortable with the subject. You may not want to go to an algebra tutor for help. Let’s get the facts straight—you don’t just want the answers, you want to learn how to solve the problem, because in today’s competitive world, not just students but nations are judged on their knowledge of math and science.

This is where Softmath’s Algebrator comes in. Developed by university-level math instructors and specialists in learning theories, Algebrator uses a step-by-step approach that high school and senior school students can use to check the procedures they use when solving algebraic equations. You can use Algebrator to simplify expressions, solve equations and inequalities, and work with complex expressions.