I understand that algebraic operations can be confusing at first, but I'll do my best to explain them step by step. Let's start with addition and subtraction in algebra, and then move on to multiplication and division.
Addition in Algebra:
Start with two or more algebraic expressions or terms that you need to add together.
Identify like terms, which are terms that have the same variables raised to the same powers. For example, 3x and 5x are like terms because they both have the variable x raised to the power of 1.
Combine the coefficients (the numbers in front of the variables) of the like terms. For example, if you have 3x + 5x, you add the coefficients 3 and 5 to get 8.
Write the sum of the coefficients next to the common variable. In this case, it would be 8x.
If there are any remaining terms without a like term, simply write them as they are. For example, if you have 8x + 2y, you cannot combine them because x and y are different variables.
Subtraction in Algebra:
Subtraction is similar to addition, but instead of adding terms, we subtract them.
Start with two algebraic expressions or terms.
Identify like terms, as we did in addition.
Instead of adding the coefficients, subtract the coefficients of the like terms.
Write the difference of the coefficients next to the common variable.
Handle any remaining terms without a like term in the same way as in addition.
Multiplication in Algebra:
Multiply the coefficients of the terms together. For example, if you have 2x * 3y, multiply 2 by 3 to get 6.
Multiply the variables together. In this case, multiply x by y to get xy.
Write the product of the coefficients and variables together. So, 2x * 3y becomes 6xy.
Division in Algebra:
Divide the coefficients of the terms. For example, if you have 12x / 4, divide 12 by 4 to get 3.
Divide the variables. If you have x / y, you cannot simplify it further because x and y are different variables. So, you leave it as x / y.
Remember, these steps are general guidelines, and there might be additional rules and concepts specific to certain algebraic expressions.
It's important to practice and familiarize yourself with these operations to gain confidence and improve your understanding.