Definition
A variable is a letter or symbol that stands for an unknown number. Common variables include x, y, and n.
A variable is like a mystery box. You know something is inside, but you have to solve the problem to figure out what number the box holds.
Examples
- In x + 5 = 12, x is the variable and x = 7.
- In 3 x n = 15, n = 5.
- y = 2x + 1 uses two variables: x and y.
Related Terms
Practice Worksheets
Grade 1 · Word Problems
Addition Word Problems
Grade 1 · Word Problems
Subtraction Word Problems
Grade 2 · Word Problems
2-Digit Add & Subtract Word Problems
Grade 2 · Word Problems
Mixed Add & Subtract Word Problems
Grade 3 · Word Problems
Multiplication Word Problems
Grade 3 · Word Problems
Division Word Problems