Algebra 1 Basic

Simplifying Expressions

Enter any polynomial expression and this tool will combine all like terms, showing you exactly how each group is identified and simplified — step by step.

Supports multiple variables
Shows like-term grouping
Handles integer exponents
Live
Expression Input
Use ^ for exponents: x^2. Supports +, −, integers, decimals.
Examples
Simplified Result
Enter an expression and press Simplify to see the result.
Simplified Expression
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Total Terms
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Like-Term Groups
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Terms After
Terms Identified
Step-by-Step Solution
Like Terms
3x + 5x = 8x   but   3x + 5y ≠ 8xy

Like terms are terms that have exactly the same variable part — the same letters raised to the same powers. Only the coefficients (the numbers in front) can differ.

For example, 3x² and −7x² are like terms because both have the variable part x². But 3x² and 3x are not like terms because the exponents differ.

Constants (plain numbers with no variable) are always like terms with each other.

When you combine like terms, you add or subtract the coefficients and keep the variable part unchanged.
Steps to Simplify
  • Write out every term in the expression, noting its sign.
  • Identify which terms share the same variable part (including exponent).
  • Group the like terms together.
  • Add (or subtract) the coefficients within each group.
  • Write the result for each group as a single term.
  • Arrange the simplified terms in a standard order (highest degree first).
Related Calculators
Evaluating Expressions
Plug in values for variables and compute the result
Open tool →
Solving Linear Equations
Solve one-variable equations step by step
Open tool →
Distributive Property
Expand expressions using distribution
Open tool →
Factoring Polynomials
Factor expressions into their component parts
Open tool →

Struggling to spot like terms?

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