Simplify expressions
- Find like terms.
- Add or subtract their coefficients.
- Leave unlike terms separate.
Answer: 2a + 5a - a = 6a
𝑥 Algebra
Simplifying expressions
Learn simplifying expressions with a GCSE-style explanation, help guide, worked example, practice question and flashcards.
Global XP
Level 10 / 100 XP
1. Explanation
Key idea
- Simplifying expressions is part of algebra and appears often in KS3–GCSE maths.
- Only like terms can be collected.
- Use the worked model, help guide, interactive question and flashcards to practise simplifying expressions until the steps feel automatic.
Real-life examples
- Shopping, sport, travel, science, design and everyday decisions all use this skill.
2. Visual
Simplifying expressions learning map
Understand the key idea → follow the help guide → practise a question → check your method → build speed with flashcards.
3. Help guide
How to tackle Simplifying expressions
- Learn the rule: Only like terms can be collected.
- Worked model: Find like terms. Add or subtract their coefficients. Leave unlike terms separate.
- Try the interactive question without looking at the answer first.
- Use the flashcards to test the rule, the method and a common check.
4. Worked examples
Step-by-step working
5. Interactive questions
Try it yourself
Simplify 3x + 2x - x.
6. Flashcards
Master quick recall
Flip each card, then choose whether you know it or need more practice.
0 mastered
FrontRule for Simplifying expressions
BackOnly like terms can be collected.
FrontExample answer: Simplify 3x + 2x - x.
Back3x + 2x - x = 5x - x = 4x.
FrontCommon check for Simplifying expressions
BackCheck units/notation, compare with an estimate, and make sure the answer matches the question.
7. Finish
Complete this topic
When you have read the examples, tried the question and reviewed flashcards, claim your topic completion XP.