Intermediate Algebra, Chapter 5, 5.2, Section 5.2, Problem 18

Write the polynomial $4 - x - 8x^2$ in descending power of the variable. Then give the
leading term and leading coefficient.

Simplify the polynomial then reorder it left to right starting with the highest degree term
$-8x^2 - x + 4$
A polynomial consists of terms, which are also known as monomials. The leading term in a polynomial is the highest degree term.
In this case, the leading term in $-8x^2 - x + 4$ is the first term, which is $-8x^2$

The leading coefficient in a polynomial is the coefficient of the leading term. In this case, the leading term is $-8x^2$ and the leading coefficient is $-8$.