Simplify Calculator
Simplify an expression in x by distributing, expanding products through degree 2, and combining like terms.
- Start with 2x + 3x + 4.
- Combine like terms to get 5x + 4.
- The simplified polynomial has degree 1.
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All calculations run locally in your browser. Your entered values are not sent to an external service.
How to Use the Simplify Calculator
Type an expression in x, then select Simplify. The tool distributes constants, expands products of linear pieces, expands a square, and combines like terms into one polynomial of degree at most 2.
- Enter the expression. You may write 2x, x^2, x², and (x+2)(x+3).
- Select Simplify, or use a preset for like terms, distribution, FOIL, or a square.
- Read the polynomial and the steps. Reset restores 2x + 3x + 4.
This page does not solve equations and does not divide. An equals sign belongs on the Equation Solver. A fraction such as 1/2 belongs on the Fraction Calculator.
Distribute, Expand, Combine
A product of two linear binomials uses the same FOIL pattern you write on paper: (x + 2)(x + 3) = x² + 3x + 2x + 6 = x² + 5x + 6. A square is that product with both factors the same: (x + 3)² = (x + 3)(x + 3).
After every product is expanded, only three kinds of term remain: x², x, and a constant. Adding those three piles is combining like terms.
Simplify Calculator Examples
Like terms
2x + 3x + 4 = 5x + 4. The two x terms add; the constant stays.
Distribution
2(x + 3) + 4x = 2x + 6 + 4x = 6x + 6.
FOIL
(x + 2)(x + 3) = x² + 5x + 6. That is the expansion of the default Factoring Calculator example.
A square
(x + 3)² = x² + 6x + 9.
A leading minus
−(x − 4) + 2x = −x + 4 + 2x = x + 4.
Two x² terms
x^2 + 2x + x^2 − 5 = 2x² + 2x − 5.
How This Differs from Factoring
Simplifying expands and gathers. Factoring goes the other way: x² + 5x + 6 becomes (x + 2)(x + 3). Use this page to clean an expression. Use the Factoring Calculator when you already have a trinomial and want binomials. Use the Quadratic Formula Calculator when you need roots, not a tidier polynomial.
The Equation Solver expects an equals sign. If you type 2x + 3 = 11 here, the tool refuses it on purpose.
Common Simplifying Mistakes
Adding 2x and 3 as if they were like terms
2x + 3 is already simple. Only x terms add to x terms.
Forgetting to distribute the minus
−(x − 4) is −x + 4, not −x − 4.
Writing x2 for x squared
Use x^2 or x². A digit after x is rejected so 2x and x^2 stay distinct.
Expanding (x+1)(x+1)(x+1)
That product is cubic. This page stops at degree 2.
Pasting an equation
Simplify the left side here, then solve the equation on the Equation Solver.
Simplify Calculator FAQs
What expressions can I simplify?
Expressions in x that expand to a polynomial of degree 0, 1, or 2, using +, −, *, parentheses, and ^2.
Can I write 2x without a multiplication sign?
Yes. 2x and (x+2)(x+3) both insert the product automatically.
Does this factor the result?
No. Simplifying stops at the combined polynomial. Use the Factoring Calculator next if you want binomials.
Why is 1/2 rejected?
Division is a different skill. Use the Fraction Calculator.
Can I simplify 2x + 3 = 11?
No. That is an equation. Use the Equation Solver.
Are my numbers sent to a server?
No. The calculation runs locally in your browser.
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Reviewed by Prof. Dr. Khalil Mudassar (PhD) · Last updated: [mc_modified_date]
Sources
Disclaimer
This calculator is for general educational use. It simplifies expressions in x through degree 2 only. Review important results before relying on them in professional work.