Like Terms
Terms with the same variable part can be combined.
Key idea
Terms with the same variable part can be combined.
In depth
Like terms have exactly the same variable part, so they can be added or subtracted, just as 3 apples + 2 apples = 5 apples. Terms such as x and x² are different kinds and cannot combine.
Worked example
4x + 3y − x + 5y = 3x + 8y.
Formula
Real-world uses
- Tidying a monthly budget by grouping similar costs
- Simplifying formulas before coding them
Common mistake
Combining x and x². 2x + 3x² does not equal 5x³.
How to learn this
- Read the key idea and say it in your own words.
- Work through the worked example, then try a similar problem.
- Use the interactive lesson’s visual and mini-quiz to check the pattern.
Frequently asked questions
What is Like Terms?
Terms with the same variable part can be combined. It is a topic at the beginner level in Algebra.
What is the formula for Like Terms?
The key formula is 3x + 5x = 8x.
Where is Like Terms used in real life?
Real-world examples: Tidying a monthly budget by grouping similar costs; Simplifying formulas before coding them.
What should I learn before Like Terms?
Make sure you are comfortable with Evaluating Expressions, the previous topic in Algebra.
What is a common mistake with Like Terms?
Combining x and x². 2x + 3x² does not equal 5x³.
How can I practise Like Terms?
Open the interactive lesson, play with the visual, then answer the three-question mini-quiz. Getting two right marks the topic complete.
What comes after Like Terms?
Move on to Distributive Property next.
Related beginner topics in Algebra
- Variables and Expressions – Letters stand for unknown or changing numbers in expressions.
- Evaluating Expressions – Substitute values for variables and simplify.
- Distributive Property – Multiplication spreads over addition.
- Simplifying Expressions – Combine like terms and apply distribution to write expressions compactly.
- Writing Expressions from Words – Translate phrases like “three more than twice a number” into algebra.
- One-Step Equations – Undo one operation to isolate the variable.