Year 8: Simplification and expansion of algebraic expressions

This cheat sheet will help you simplify and expand algebraic expressions. Remember to follow the order of operations (BODMAS/PEMDAS).

Simplifying Expressions

Like Terms

Like terms are terms that have the same variables raised to the same powers. You can combine them to simplify an expression.

• Example: 3x + 2x = 5x
• Example: 2y² + 5y² = 7y²

Removing Brackets (Expanding) - The Distributive Property

When multiplying a number or variable by a bracket, distribute it to all the terms inside the bracket.

• Example: 2(x + 3) = 2x + 6
• Example: 3(2y - 1) = 6y - 3

Expanding Expressions

Expanding means multiplying out a bracket to get rid of it.

• Example: (x + 1)(x + 2) = x² + 2x + x + 2 = x² + 3x + 2

Key Reminders:

• Always simplify before applying any rules.
• Double-check your work!