Matrix Algebra 110 · On-demand course

Matrix Algebra 110: solving linear systems with determinants and matrix inverses

A recorded course from MCC Economics on putting matrix algebra to work. It shows how to write a system of linear equations in matrix form and solve it step by step, drawing on special matrices, determinants and inverses, with detailed examples.

Format
On demand, recorded
Topics
Linear systems, determinants, inverses
Materials
Video, slides, quiz, transcript
Access
Immediate

Meet your course instructor

Matrix Algebra 110 is part of MCC Economics' quantitative methods series, which covers the mathematics behind economic and financial modelling.

Course author

Hairo Senosain

Hairo is the author of Matrix Algebra 110 and other courses in MCC's quantitative methods series.

Quick Answer

Matrix Algebra 110 is an on-demand course on solving linear systems with matrices. It shows how to write a set of equations in the form Ax = b, how determinants tell you whether a solution exists and how the inverse matrix finds it. You get the video lecture, slides, a quiz and a transcript as soon as you buy.

Key takeaways

  • Any set of linear equations can be written compactly as one matrix equation, Ax = b.
  • The determinant of A tells you whether A has an inverse. If it is zero, there is no unique solution.
  • When the inverse exists, the solution is x = A⁻¹b, and the course works through the steps with examples.
  • It is recorded, with no live session, and access starts immediately after purchase.

What will you be able to do after the course?

You will be able to turn a set of equations into matrix form and solve it. The course is built around three outcomes.

  • Represent linear systems. Write a system of linear equations as a single matrix equation.
  • Use determinants and inverses. Work with special matrices, calculate determinants and find a matrix inverse.
  • Apply the techniques. Follow detailed examples and practical applications of matrix operations.

What does the course cover?

The lecture follows the published agenda, and a quiz at the end tests your understanding.

  1. Introduction and guest speaker
  2. Matrix representation of linear systems: writing a set of linear equations as one matrix equation
  3. Steps: working through the solution step by step

What do the key terms mean?

These are terms you will meet in the course, in plain English.

TermMeaning
MatrixA rectangular grid of numbers arranged in rows and columns.
Linear systemA set of equations in which each unknown appears only to the first power, such as 2x + y = 5.
Special matricesMatrices with a particular structure, such as the identity matrix, which leaves any matrix unchanged when multiplied by it.
DeterminantA single number calculated from a square matrix. If it is zero, the matrix has no inverse.
Inverse matrixThe matrix A⁻¹ that, multiplied by A, gives the identity matrix. It is used to solve Ax = b.

Who is the course for?

It suits anyone who uses quantitative methods and wants a firmer grasp of the mathematics underneath.

  • Students in mathematics and economics
  • Professionals deepening their quantitative skills
  • Decision makers who use mathematical tools
  • Policy analysts
  • Researchers

Which courses should you take first?

Matrix Algebra 110 is the third course in MCC's on-demand matrix algebra series. Matrix methods are the basis of regression, so Econometrics 101 is a natural next step.

  1. 101Matrix terminology and representation
  2. 105Special matrices and determinants
  3. Econ101 The linear regression model
  4. This course

Browse every title on the MCC Economics courses page.

Why learn this from MCC Economics?

MCC Economics is an independent consultancy, founded in London in 2017, that provides economic and financial analysis to governments, regulators and businesses. Its research and data analysis and financial modelling work relies on the quantitative methods taught in this series. Meet the team on the people page.

I was delighted that MCC's work was completed on time, and within budget, helping us deliver important changes and improvements, to the benefit of our stakeholders.
Bea Natzler, Team Leader, Climate Change Committee, UK

Questions buyers ask before registering

Who teaches Matrix Algebra 110?

See the instructor profiles near the top of this page for the current teaching team.

Is there a live session?

No. Matrix Algebra 110 is available on demand only and no meeting is held. You work through the recorded material at your own pace.

What do I get when I buy?

The video lecture, the slides, a quiz and a full transcript.

When can I start?

Straight away. Access to all course materials is given as soon as the order is placed.

How do you solve a linear system with matrices?

Write the equations in matrix form, Ax = b. If the determinant of A is not zero, A has an inverse, and the solution is x = A⁻¹b.

Do I need to know matrix algebra already?

It helps. Matrix Algebra 110 builds on matrix terminology from Matrix Algebra 101 and on special matrices and determinants from Matrix Algebra 105.

How much does it cost?

The MCC Economics courses page lists Matrix Algebra 110 from £32.68. The final price is shown at checkout on Eventbrite.

Can my team take the course together?

Contact MCC Economics through the consultation page to discuss places for a team or training tailored to your organisation.

Page last reviewed October 2026.