The term with the highest degree is called the leading term because it is usually written first. The coefficient of the leading term is called the leading coefficient. When a polynomial is written so that the powers are descending, we say that it is in standard form.

What is the leading coefficient?

the coefficient of the term of highest degree in a given polynomial. ...

How do you know if the leading coefficient is positive or negative?

If the leading coefficient is positive, bigger inputs only make the leading term more and more positive. The graph will rise to the right. If the leading coefficient is negative, bigger inputs only make the leading term more and more negative.