1. Let's start by understanding what algebra is. Algebra is a branch of mathematics that uses symbols, usually letters, to represent numbers and express mathematical relationships. 2. A common algebraic expression is something like $2x + 3 = 7$. Here, $x$ is a variable representing an unknown number. 3. To solve for $x$, we use the rules of algebra. The goal is to isolate $x$ on one side of the equation. 4. Subtract 3 from both sides: $$2x + 3 - 3 = 7 - 3$$ which simplifies to $$2x = 4$$. 5. Now divide both sides by 2 to solve for $x$: $$\frac{2x}{2} = \frac{4}{2}$$ which gives $$x = 2$$. 6. This means the value of $x$ that makes the equation true is 2. 7. Algebra helps us solve problems where some values are unknown by using equations and formulas.