Simplify: 3x² + 4x − x² + 2x − 5
Step 1 Identify term types
x² terms: 3x² and −x²
x terms: 4x and 2x
Constants: −5
Remember: x² and x are NOT like terms!
Step 2 Collect each type
x² terms: 3x² − x² = 2x²
x terms: 4x + 2x = 6x
Constants: −5
Final Answer
2x² + 6x − 5
(Written with highest power first)
This study notes covers Worked Example 3: With Powers 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 6 of 19 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Simplifying Expressions
Which two terms are like terms?
Explain why 3x + 2x² cannot be simplified to 5x³.