To simplify the expression , start by distributing the across the terms inside the parentheses. This means you multiply by both and , resulting in:

Thus, the simplified expression is .

Now, let’s explore a little about the behind-the-scenes math!

The act of distributing, or the distributive property, is a fundamental concept in algebra that allows you to expand expressions and make them easier to work with. It’s like a magic tool in your algebra toolbox that helps transform complex expressions into their simpler forms, sorting out the relationships between variables!

Next, make sure you check your work! A common mistake when distributing is forgetting to multiply every term. Always double-check by revisiting each term: Did you multiply all parts of the expression? Ensuring you’ve caught all terms is key in preventing errors in your calculations!