What Are the Steps to Simplify Algebraic Expressions?

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In summary, simplifying something involves breaking it down into smaller, more manageable parts and eliminating unnecessary complexities. This can be done by identifying the main idea or key points and discarding any extraneous details. Additionally, using clear and concise language can also aid in simplifying information. Ultimately, the goal of simplification is to make something easier to understand and more accessible to others.
  • #1
eleventhxhour
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How do you simplify this?
\(\displaystyle -2x[5x-(2x-7)]+6x[3x-(1+2x)]\)

Can someone show the steps? I keep getting the wrong answer.
 
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  • #2
eleventhxhour said:
How do you simplify this?
\(\displaystyle -2x[5x-(2x-7)]+6x[3x-(1+2x)]\)

Can someone show the steps? I keep getting the wrong answer.

I would first simplify the inside pieces, multiple, and then add. That is,
\[
5x - (2x - 7) = 5x - 2x + 7
\]
Correct?
Then we have
\[
-2x(3x + 7) = -6x^2 - 14x
\]
Now for the other piece, we have
\[
3x - 1 - 2x = x - 1
\]
Correct?
Then we have
\[
6x(x-1) = 6x^2 - 6x
\]
Now we can add the two pieces together to get
\[
-6x^2 - 14x + 6x^2 - 6x = -20x
\]
 
Last edited:
  • #3
eleventhxhour said:
How do you simplify this?
\(\displaystyle -2x[5x-(2x-7)]+6x[3x-(1+2x)]\)

Can someone show the steps? I keep getting the wrong answer.

This is practically a duplicate of a previous question. You were given plenty of reponses. If you didn't understand you should have asked for clarification, although expanding brackets is so fundamental you will be able to find step by step guides in any textbook on secondary school algebra.
 

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