Example

Simplifying 82(x+3)8 - 2(x + 3) by Distributing and Combining Like Terms

Simplify 82(x+3)8 - 2(x + 3) — an expression where a constant term precedes a product that must be distributed. Because the order of operations requires multiplication before subtraction, the factor of 22 must be distributed across the parenthesized sum before the 88 is dealt with.

Step 1 — Distribute: Multiply 2-2 by each term inside the parentheses. The subtraction sign in front of the 22 means the factor being distributed is 2-2:

82x238 - 2 \cdot x - 2 \cdot 3

Step 2 — Multiply: Compute each product: 2x=2x2 \cdot x = 2x and 23=62 \cdot 3 = 6:

82x68 - 2x - 6

Step 3 — Combine like terms: The constants 88 and 6-6 are like terms: 86=28 - 6 = 2. The variable term 2x-2x has no like-term partner:

2x+2-2x + 2

The simplified result is 2x+2-2x + 2. A common error is to subtract 22 from 88 first, producing 6(x+3)6(x + 3). This is incorrect because multiplication (distribution) must be performed before subtraction according to the order of operations.

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Updated 2026-05-02

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