Algebra is difficult without knowing basic math facts .
It’s a lot easier to factor x^2 + 5x + 6 when you can rapidly figure out what numbers will multiply to 6 yet add up to 5
(x + 2)(x + 3)
IMHO, they need to drop the calculators and bring back rote & drill for the basics.
That being said, algebra is like excercise for your mind muscle. You may not ever use it per se, but it helps you in other cognitive tasks.
Here I was trying to sound all erudite and stuff, when I go and misspell exercise. /drat