SIMPLIFYING ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSION

Before we simplify algebraic expression, we need to understand what is ‘TERMS’ and

what is ‘LIKE TERMS’.
~ TERMS are parts of an algebraic expression that separated by + or - (an addition
and subtraction sign).
Example: 19b + 18 + 3b – 7

1 2 3 4

19b + 18 + 3b – 7 =

These are what we call TERMS.

So, meaning we have 4 terms in this expression.

~ LIKE TERMS have the same variables (letters).

19b + 18 + 3b – 7 =

These are what we call LIKE TERMS.

SO, HERE IS HOW WE’RE GOING TO SIMPLIFY STEP BY STEP;

STEP 1. Gather the Like Terms together by moving it and don’t forget the
operations (+ or -) before it.

= 19b + 18 + 3b – 7

After you moved, the number

= 19b + 3b + 18 – 7 should be arranged like that.

STEP 2. Add or subtract the like terms and terms.

= 19b + 3b + 18 – 7

So, 22b + 11 is the answer for simplified

= 22b + 11 algebraic expression.
OTHER EXAMPLE(S):

In this algebraic expression, all the terms

I) 20a – 5a – 13a are like terms so you can subtract it step
by step.

= 20a – 5a – 13a First, subtract 5a from 20a (20a – 5a).

Then bring down the answer (15a) and the
leftover of the terms (13a).
= 15a – 13a

= 15a – 13a Next, subtract 13a from 15a (15a – 13a)

and the answer you get is the final answer.
= 2a

II) 3x + 5 + 7x

For this expression, do the like terms first

= 3x + 5 + 7x
by rearranging the expressions.

Then, add the like terms (3x + 7x). Bring

= 3x + 7x + 5
down the answer and the leftover of the
term.
= 10x + 5
These 2 terms are not alike. You cannot
add it. So just leave it and it’s the has been
simplified. It’s the final answer.