Algebra — Simplifying Expressions
I will go over steps to show you how to simplify expressions. There are two steps you need to follow
- Identify the different terms
- Combine like terms
- Simplify the like terms
Example
- Identify the different terms.
Notice if the sign is a minus in front of the term, we are including that with the term. So -4k² is considered a negative term.
2k and 4 are positive terms. If it doesn’t have anything in front of it, it is considered a positive term.
2. Group like/similar terms
Notice when grouping like terms, the terms with k³ are in a group, terms with k² are in a group, etc.
Also notice we are including the terms with the highest exponent first.
3. Simplify like terms
We are just performing the math from the previous step. For now, let’s keep everything in parentheses, to prevent us from making mistakes.
Remember when subtracting a negative from a negative, it is the same as adding the numbers, then putting a negative sign in front of it.
Remove parentheses and fix signs if needed
First, remove the parentheses.
If there is plus sign followed by a minus sign, remove the plus sign.
Verify your solution
You can use Math Papa Simplify Calculator to verify your solution. Note that online problem solvers will not always be correct, but I haven’t had any issues with Math Papa yet.
