Simplifying Algebraic Expressions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This article will guide you through simplifying the algebraic expression (3t - 3) + (6t2 + 4t + 13) + (-8t2 + 11t - 1).
Understanding the Process
Simplifying an algebraic expression involves combining like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variables and exponents.
Here's how to approach the simplification:
-
Remove the parentheses. Since we are adding the expressions, the parentheses don't affect the order of operations. We can simply remove them:
3t - 3 + 6t2 + 4t + 13 - 8t2 + 11t - 1
-
Rearrange the terms. Group the like terms together:
6t2 - 8t2 + 3t + 4t + 11t - 3 + 13 - 1
-
Combine the like terms. Add the coefficients of the like terms:
-2t2 + 18t + 9
The Simplified Expression
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (3t - 3) + (6t2 + 4t + 13) + (-8t2 + 11t - 1) is -2t2 + 18t + 9.
Key Points
- Remember to combine only like terms.
- Pay attention to the signs of the coefficients.
- The order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) still applies when simplifying expressions.
By following these steps, you can confidently simplify any algebraic expression.