Adding Like Terms ... Revision

When adding like terms to simplify an algebraic expression,

1. Arrange the 'like terms' together before adding them up. This minimizes mistakes. 
2. Double check that all 'like terms' are added up. 

The algebraic expression is considered simplified only when there is no more 'like terms' in it.
The following video will show you how to add 'like terms'.



Here's a step-by-step example of how to simplify the algebraic expression by adding like terms.

1. First, arrange the like terms as shown.                                       
2. Add the terms +3x² and +5x² together. You will get 8x².       
3. Add the like terms +5x and -2x together. You will get 3x.        
4. There is no more like terms in this expression.                                        This expression cannot be simplified further.             
5. The final expression is 3x +8x² +7.  You can rearrange the expression as 8x² +3x +7 so it looks neater.