This study notes covers Worked Example 2: Multiple Variables within Simplifying Expressions for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Simplifying Expressions in Algebra for GCSE Mathematics with 11 exam-style questions and 5 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 5 of 19 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Worked Example 2: Multiple Variables
Simplify: 4a + 3b − 2a + 5b − 1
Step 1 Identify term types
a terms: 4a and −2a
b terms: 3b and 5b
Constants: −1
Step 2 Collect each type
a terms: 4a − 2a = 2a
b terms: 3b + 5b = 8b
Constants: −1
Final Answer
2a + 8b − 1
Practice questions for Simplifying Expressions
Which two terms are like terms?
Explain why 3x + 2x² cannot be simplified to 5x³.
Quick recall flashcards
Like Terms
Terms with same letter and power: 2x and 5x are like terms
Substitution
Replace each letter with its given value, then calculate