Step by step
The question
Question: what is the coefficient of y in 8 − 3y?
8 − 3y
1 Split into terms
Terms are the parts between the + and − signs.
Each sign stays with the term after it.
So the terms are 8 and −3y.
= terms: 8, −3y
Careful!
The minus sign goes with the term.
It is −3y, not 3y.
Careful: not 3y ✗
2 Name each part
The term with y is −3y.
The number in front of the letter is −3.
= y term: −3y → coefficient −3
3 Check
Let's check: put the terms back together.
8 plus −3y.
Adding a negative is taking away.
We get 8 − 3y again.
So the answer is right!
8 + (−3y) = 8 − 3y
Let's look back.
First: split into terms.
Then: name each part.
Last: check.
Answer
= y term: −3y → coefficient −3