Free Maths Calculator

Simplifying Expressions Calculator

Collect like terms by gathering the x parts, the y parts and the plain numbers into three separate piles. Only matching letters can combine, and each term keeps the sign in front of it, which is where most marks are lost. Enter the two halves of your expression and watch them merge.

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Method, Step by Step

    Worked Example

    Simplify 3x + 2y + 5 + 4x − y − 2.

    1. Gather the x terms: 3x and 4x give 7x
    2. Gather the y terms: 2y and −y give y
    3. Gather the plain numbers: 5 and −2 give 3
    4. Write the groups together: 7x + y + 3

    Answer: 7x + y + 3

    Try These Yourself

    Simplify 5x + 3x.Show answerHide answer

    Answer: 8x

    Both are x terms, so they add.

    Simplify 6x + 4 − 2x − 9.Show answerHide answer

    Answer: 4x − 5

    6x − 2x = 4x, and 4 − 9 = −5.

    Simplify 2x + 3y.Show answerHide answer

    Answer: 2x + 3y

    Different letters, so nothing combines.