Like terms represent the same variable quantity, such as and , so their coefficients can be added or subtracted while the variable part remains unchanged; constants combine with constants (for example, ). This preserves an equivalent value for every substitution and distinguishes terms that cannot be combined, such as and or and , without extending to more advanced polynomial rules.
On this page:
- Learn “Combine like terms informally” with a detailed explanation of the concept
- Master “Combine like terms informally” with unlimited, free practice problems
- Download (or modify) a free worksheet on Combine like terms informally you can use at home or in class with practice problems that scaffold and explore “Combine like terms informally” from different perspectives.
- Start working on adaptive units like “Polynomials and Quadratics - Intro” or “Algebra Basic Concepts - Advanced” that introduce, teach, or practice “Combine like terms informally” to maximize your learning.
Detailed Explanation: Combine like terms informally
Like terms have the same variable part. For example, and are like terms, and constants such as and are also like terms. Terms with different variables, such as and , cannot be combined.
Example: Simplify
Step 1: Find the like terms.
- and are like terms.
- and are constants, so they are like terms.
Step 2: Combine the coefficients of the terms.
The coefficient of is , and the coefficient of is :
Keep the variable unchanged.
Step 3: Combine the constants.
Step 4: Write the simplified expression.
So, is equivalent to .
Learn by doing: Combine like terms informally
Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill
Your results
Practice with unlimited practice problems
Practice:
Like Terms - Combine - Order 1 - Whole - One Variable - Expression to Pair
Earned ?
Download/Modify Free Grade 6 'Combine like terms informally' Worksheet
Print this free 'Combine like terms informally' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Like Terms - Combine - Order 1 - Whole - One Variable - Expression to Pair
- Like Terms - Combine - Order 2 - Whole - One Variable - Expression to Pair
- Like Terms - Combine - Order 1 - Whole - Multiple Variables - Expression to Pair
- Like Terms - Combine - Order 1 - Whole - One Variable - Pair to True or False
- Like Terms - Combine - Order 2 - Whole - One Variable - Pair to True or False
- Like Terms - Identify - Order 2 - Whole - One Variable - Pair to True or False
- Like Terms - Identify - Order 1 - Whole - Multiple Variables - Expression to Pair
- Like Terms - Combine - Order 1 - Whole - Multiple Variables - Pair to True or False
Units Teaching This Skill
These adaptive units introduce, teach, or reinforce this skill (Combine like terms informally) through scaffolded problems that grow in difficulty as concepts are understood.