103 LearnersLast updated on June 25th, 2025
Combining Like Terms Calculator
Calculators are reliable tools for solving simple mathematical problems and advanced calculations like trigonometry. Whether you’re cooking, tracking BMI, or planning a construction project, calculators will make your life easy. In this topic, we are going to talk about combining like terms calculators.
What is Combining Like Terms Calculator?
A combining like terms calculator is a tool that helps simplify algebraic expressions by combining terms that have the same variable and exponent. This calculator makes the process of simplifying expressions much easier and faster, saving time and effort.
How to Use the Combining Like Terms Calculator?
Given below is a step-by-step process on how to use the calculator:
Step 1: Enter the expression: Input the algebraic expression into the given field.
Step 2: Click on simplify: Click on the simplify button to combine like terms and get the result.
Step 3: View the result: The calculator will display the simplified expression instantly.
How to Combine Like Terms?
To combine like terms, identify terms in the expression that have the same variable and exponent. Add or subtract their coefficients to combine them into a single term.
For example, in the expression (3x + 5x - 2x), the like terms are (3x), (5x), and (-2x).
Combine them by adding their coefficients: (3 + 5 - 2 = 6).
The simplified expression is (6x).
Tips and Tricks for Using the Combining Like Terms Calculator
When using a combining like terms calculator, there are a few tips and tricks to make it a bit easier and avoid mistakes:
- Carefully check for terms with the same variables and exponents.
- Remember that constants (numbers without variables) can also be combined.
- Use parentheses to handle expressions with multiple terms, especially when involving subtraction or negative signs.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them When Using the Combining Like Terms Calculator
We may think that when using a calculator, mistakes will not happen. But it is possible to make mistakes when using a calculator.
Mistake 1
Not identifying like terms correctly.
Ensure that you are only combining terms that have the exact same variable and exponent.
For example, (2x) and (3x2) are not like terms.
Mistake 2
Forgetting negative signs when combining terms
Pay attention to the signs in front of each term.
For example, in the expression (4x - 2x), the result is (2x), not (6x).
Mistake 3
Combining terms incorrectly with different variables
Do not combine terms that have different variables, such as (2x) and (3y). These terms are not like terms and should remain separate.
Mistake 4
Relying on the calculator too much without understanding the process
Understand the basic concept of combining like terms and use the calculator as a tool to verify your work, not as a substitute for understanding.
Mistake 5
Assuming all calculators will handle all expressions
Be aware that some calculators might not simplify complex expressions involving multiple variables or higher powers accurately. Double-check with manual calculations if needed.
Combining Like Terms Calculator Examples
Problem 1
Simplify the expression (7a + 3b + 2a - 5b).
Identify like terms:
- (7a) and (2a) are like terms.
- (3b) and (-5b) are like terms.
Combine them:
- (7a + 2a = 9a\) - (3b - 5b = -2b)
The simplified expression is (9a - 2b).
Explanation
By adding (7a) and (2a), we get (9a).
Subtracting (5b) from (3b), we get (-2b).
The final expression is (9a - 2b).
Problem 2
Simplify the expression (-4x + 6y - 3x + 2y).
Identify like terms:
- (-4x) and (-3x) are like terms.
- (6y) and (2y) are like terms.
Combine them: - (-4x - 3x = -7x) - (6y + 2y = 8y)
The simplified expression is (-7x + 8y).
Explanation
Adding (-4x) and (-3x) gives (-7x).
Adding (6y) and (2y) gives (8y).
The final expression is (-7x + 8y).
Problem 3
Simplify the expression (8m - 4n + 5m + 6n).
Identify like terms:
- (8m) and (5m) are like terms.
- (-4n) and (6n) are like terms.
Combine them: - (8m + 5m = 13m) - (-4n + 6n = 2n)
The simplified expression is (13m + 2n).
Explanation
Adding (8m) and (5m) gives (13m).
Adding (-4n) and (6n) gives (2n).
The final expression is (13m + 2n).
Problem 4
Simplify the expression (-2p + 3q - 4p - q).
Identify like terms:
- (-2p) and (-4p) are like terms.
- (3q) and (-q) are like terms.
Combine them: - (-2p - 4p = -6p) - (3q - q = 2q)
The simplified expression is (-6p + 2q).
Explanation
Adding (-2p) and (-4p) gives (-6p).
Subtracting (q) from (3q) gives (2q).
The final expression is (-6p + 2q).
Problem 5
Simplify the expression (5x + 7y - 3x + 2y).
Identify like terms:
- (5x) and (-3x) are like terms.
- (7y) and (2y) are like terms.
Combine them: - (5x - 3x = 2x) - (7y + 2y = 9y)
The simplified expression is (2x + 9y).
Explanation
Subtracting (3x) from (5x) gives (2x).
Adding (7y) and (2y) gives (9y).
The final expression is (2x + 9y).
FAQs on Using the Combining Like Terms Calculator
1.How do you combine like terms?
2.Can you combine (2x) and (3y)?
3.Why is it important to combine like terms?
4.How do I use a combining like terms calculator?
5.Is the combining like terms calculator accurate?
Glossary of Terms for the Combining Like Terms Calculator
- Combining Like Terms Calculator: A tool used to simplify algebraic expressions by combining terms with the same variable and exponent.
- Coefficient: A numerical or constant quantity placed before and multiplying the variable in an algebraic expression (e.g., 4 in 4x).
- Variable: A symbol, often a letter, that represents a number in mathematical expressions or equations.
- Exponent: A number that indicates how many times the base is multiplied by itself (e.g., 2 in (x2)).
- Expression: A mathematical phrase that can contain numbers, variables, and operators, but does not have an equality sign.
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Seyed Ali Fathima S
About the Author
Seyed Ali Fathima S a math expert with nearly 5 years of experience as a math teacher. From an engineer to a math teacher, shows her passion for math and teaching. She is a calculator queen, who loves tables and she turns tables to puzzles and songs.
Fun Fact
: She has songs for each table which helps her to remember the tables
