Combine like terms
Simplify 3x+2x-4
Method: Add coefficients of terms with the same variable part.
- 1Identify 3x and 2x as like terms.
- 2Add their coefficients to get 5x.
- 3Keep the constant -4.
Final answer
Free online calculator
Simplify Calculator
Simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms, canceling common factors, and applying algebraic identities.
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How to Use the Simplify Calculator
1
Enter the expression
Type the algebraic expression you want to simplify.
2
Apply rules
We combine like terms and cancel common factors.
3
Show the result
Get the simplified form with each step explained.
Example
How the Simplify Calculator Chooses a Method
Rewrite an expression in an equivalent simpler form without losing domain restrictions.
The calculator combines like terms, distributes or factors where useful, reduces rational expressions by common factors, and preserves restrictions inherited from the original expression.
Supported problem types
- Combining like terms and distributing products
- Polynomial and rational-expression simplification
- Basic exponent and radical reductions
Limits and assumptions
- Equivalent expressions may have different appearances.
- Canceling a factor does not remove restrictions from the original denominator.
Worked Simplify Calculator Examples
Each example names the method, shows the ordered reasoning, and keeps the final answer separate so you can check your own work.
Distribute and combine
Simplify 2(x+3)-x
Method: Distribute before combining like terms.
- 1Multiply 2 by both terms in parentheses.
- 2Rewrite as 2x+6-x.
- 3Combine the x terms.
Final answer
Rational expression
Simplify (x^2-1)/(x-1)
Method: Factor numerator and cancel a common factor.
- 1Factor the numerator as (x-1)(x+1).
- 2Cancel x-1 when it is nonzero.
- 3State the original restriction x not equal to 1.
Final answer
Learn This Topic
What the Simplify Calculator Helps You Understand
Simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms, canceling common factors, and applying algebraic identities.
Learning focus 1
Type the algebraic expression you want to simplify.
Learning focus 2
We combine like terms and cancel common factors.
Learning focus 3
Get the simplified form with each step explained.
Input tips
- • Type the algebraic expression you want to simplify.
- • Yes. The calculator factors numerators and denominators and cancels common factors when possible.
Common mistakes to avoid
- • Canceling terms that are joined by addition.
- • Dropping restrictions from the original denominator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it simplify rational expressions?
Yes. The calculator factors numerators and denominators and cancels common factors when possible.
Does it expand or just simplify?
It focuses on simplification — reducing to the most compact equivalent form. Use the Factoring Calculator for factorization.
Can two different-looking answers both be correct?
Yes. Expanding, factoring, and applying identities can produce equivalent forms; evaluate or transform them to compare.
Why must denominator restrictions remain?
Simplification cannot make an input valid at a value where the original expression was undefined.