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.
Worked Example 3: With Powers
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)
Practice questions for Simplifying Expressions
Which two terms are like terms?
Explain why 3x + 2x² cannot be simplified to 5x³.