Combining like terms requires that you identify which terms are like first. Once you have them identified as like terms, you can add or subtract as indicated. Let's take a look at a few examples and then try some problems.
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Example 1
| Simplify by combining like terms: |
3x - 5y - 2x |
| The like terms are 3x and -2x: |
3x - 5y - 2x |
| Then group the like terms together: |
(3x - 2x) - 5y |
| Now subtract the like terms: |
(3 - 2)x - 5y |
| This is the furthest that this expression can be simplified. |
x - 5y |
Example 2
| Simplify by combining like terms: |
22m - 15y + 33m - 12my + 13y |
| The like terms are 22m and 33m but also -15y and 13y. |
22m - 15y + 33m - 12my + 13y |
| Then group the like terms together. Remember, you can change subtraction to addition of a negative if it's easier for you. |
(-15y + 13y) + (22m + 33m) - 12my |
| Now add the like terms: |
(-15 + 13)y + (22 + 33)m - 12my |
| This is the furthest that this expression can be simplified. |
-2y + 55m - 12my |
You Try It!
Combine the like terms to simplify each of the expressions shown below. Click the problem to see the answer.
| 8x + 4xy - 3xy + 2x |
10x + xy |
| -8x + 4xy - 3xy - 2x |
-10x + xy |
| 5xy + 3x - xy + 2x |
4xy + 5x |
| 14 + 2x - 3y + 12 |
2x - 3y + 26 |
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