When you start learning algebra, it's really important to get a good grip on some key ideas. One of these ideas is understanding the difference between algebraic terms and like terms.

Algebraic Terms:

• These are any parts of an equation that include numbers, letters (called variables), or both.
• For example, $3x$, $7y^2$, and $5$ are all algebraic terms.
• Each term stands on its own.

Like Terms:

• These are a special group of algebraic terms that have the same variable parts.
• For example, $3x$ and $5x$ are like terms because they both contain the variable $x$.

To sum it up, all like terms are algebraic terms, but not every algebraic term is a like term. Think of it like a family—everyone in the family is part of the household, but not everyone has the same last name!