Question

Combining like terms 5(-2n+4)+2(n+3)

Answer 1

5 (-2n + 4) + 2 (n+3)

•distribute 5 and +2 by multiplying it with the numbers inside the bracket

= -10n + 20 + 2n + 6

Note: this step could be done with left side first then right side. I just thought this would be faster to do it together (if this (note) is confusing you can ignore it)

• combined the like terms, so all the n’s one the left and the rest on the right

= -10n + 2n + 20 + 6

• add the up according to their signs (+ or -)

= -8n + 26

You can also simplify it more by finding a common factor.

2 (-4n + 13) (this is also give you the same answer)

^ if this is too confusing or if you haven’t learned it yet you can leave it out.

Reminders:

• follow BEDMAS or PEDMAS
• remember to ALWAYS go from left to right
• if there is a negative number outside the bracket, it must be distributed with the number. For ex:

-2 (n+3)
= -2n - 6

Note when multiplying or dividing:

• negative and negative = positive
• positive and positive = positive
• negative and positive = negative
• positive and negative = negative

Answer 2

-8n + 26

Explanation:

Distribute the 5 and 2:

5(-2n + 4) + 2(n + 3)

-10n + 20 + 2n + 6

Add together the variable terms and numbers:

-8n + 26 is the final expression