Algebra 1

Algebra 1 is the core first course in algebra — the foundation that everything from Algebra 2 through calculus builds on. If arithmetic is about computing with numbers you already know, algebra is about finding numbers you do not know yet. This section covers linear equations, graphing, systems of equations, inequalities, polynomials, factoring, and quadratic equations.

Algebra 1 is also called “Algebra” or “Elementary Algebra” in many curricula. It covers the bulk of what appears on the GED and the SAT Algebra domain.

Why Algebra 1 Matters

Algebra shows up in nearly every trade and profession, often in ways people do not immediately recognize:

• Electricians rearrange Ohm’s Law ($V = IR$) to solve for unknown voltage, current, or resistance on every job.
• Nurses solve dosage formulas where the unknown is the volume of medication to administer.
• Carpenters calculate unknown measurements, roof pitch, and material quantities using algebraic reasoning.
• HVAC technicians use linear relationships to model temperature change over time and size equipment correctly.
• Retail managers set up equations to find break-even points, markups, and discount thresholds.

Each topic in this section includes at least one real-world example drawn from these fields so you can see how the math connects to actual work.

Where to Start

Start with Solving Linear Equations — it is the foundation for everything else in this section. From there, move to slope and graphing, then systems, inequalities, and on to polynomials, factoring, and quadratics. If you need to brush up on arithmetic first, head to the Arithmetic section. If you need a gentler on-ramp covering variables, expressions, and basic equation solving, start with Pre-Algebra instead.

What Comes Next

After Algebra 1, continue to Algebra 2 for polynomial functions, exponentials, logarithms, and more advanced topics. Or explore Geometry and Trigonometry — both build on the equation-solving skills you will learn here.