3D Coordinate System

A diagram for visually graphing equations using x-, y-, and z-axes. Stare at it long enough and you'll find the hidden 3D image.

Elimination Method

A method of solving a system of linear equations where the two equations (or multiples of the equations) are added or subtracted to eliminate one of the variables. It's the recipient of the Shmoop Personal Favorite Method For Solving Linear Equations Award.

Ordered Triplet

A set of three elements that indicates a specific point on the 3D coordinate system, written as (x, y, z). Please don't call them Fred, George, and Shirley. That's confusing.

Solution

The points that satisfy all equations in a system. Not just one out of two, two out of three, or 137 out of 138.

Substitution Method

A method of solving a system of linear equations where one equation is solved for one of the variables and then that equation is substituted in for the variable in the other equation. It's the runner-up for the Shmoop Personal Favorite Method For Solving Linear Equations Award.

System Of Linear Equations

Two or more linear equations with variables x and y, and maybe others. Usually they will be unknown values. If you know what they are, it really takes the sport out of solving linear equations.