Algebra 1 · Expressions & Equations
Like Terms
Algebra 1 · Expressions & Equations
Definition
Like terms are terms with the same variable raised to the same power, combined by adding their coefficients.
Examples
- 3x and 5x are like terms: 3x + 5x = 8x.
- 2y and −7y are like terms: 2y − 7y = −5y.
Key rule
Only like terms can be combined by adding coefficients.
Memory hook
Same variable, same power − they match.