Combining like terms

Math

Definition

Combining like terms is the process of simplifying an algebraic expression by adding or subtracting terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. Constants can also be combined with other constants.

How It Works

  1. Identify terms that have the same variable and exponent
  2. Add or subtract the coefficients of those like terms
  3. Keep the variable and exponent the same
  4. Repeat for all groups of like terms and constants

Examples

  • 3x + 5x = 8x
  • 2a² + 4a - a² + 3a simplifies to a² + 7a
  • 7y - 2 + 3y + 9 simplifies to 10y + 7
Key Fact

Like terms must have the same variable(s) raised to the same power(s).

Related Terms

Variables and expressions Evaluating expressions Distributive property

Study This Concept

Practice combining like terms with free review games in these units:

Pre-Algebra Unit 5: Variables and Expressions