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AlgebraStudy Notes

Worked Example 2: Multiple Variables

Part of Simplifying Expressions — GCSE Mathematics

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. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 5 of 18 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 5 of 18

Practice

11 questions

Recall

5 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

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Simplifying Expressions. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Worked Example 1: Basic SimplificationWorked Example 3: With PowersWhat Does "Simplify" Mean?What Are "Like Terms"?

Practice Questions for Simplifying Expressions

Which two terms are like terms?

  • A. 3x and 3y
  • B. 2x² and 5x
  • C. 4ab and 7ba
  • D. 6 and 6x
1 markfoundation

Explain why 3x + 2x² cannot be simplified to 5x³.

2 markshigher

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

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Worked Example 1: Basic Simplification

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Worked Example 3: With Powers