Use the distributiv Simplify your ansv \( \frac{1}{4}(12+y) \)

To simplify \( \frac{1}{4}(12 + y) \), you apply the distributive property. This means you’ll multiply \( \frac{1}{4} \) by both terms inside the parentheses: \[ \frac{1}{4} \times 12 + \frac{1}{4} \times y = 3 + \frac{1}{4}y. \] So, the simplified answer is \( 3 + \frac{1}{4}y \)! When working with the distributive property, remember to treat each term inside the parentheses as a separate entity. A common mistake is only distributing to the first term and forgetting the second, which can lead to errors in your final answer. Double-checking each step can save you from these small mishaps!