Simplifying expressions and like terms: Class 7 practice
Like terms have the same variables raised to the same powers. Read the method, follow the three worked examples, then try the six questions.
What you should know first
- Integers
The idea behind simplifying expressions and like terms
Like terms have the same variables raised to the same powers. Add or subtract only their coefficients; unlike terms stay separate. Open brackets carefully: a minus sign in front changes every sign inside.
Step-by-step method
- Remove brackets (watch minus signs).
- Group like terms.
- Add their coefficients.
- Write the simplified expression.
Worked example 1 (Basic)
Simplify (4x − 8y) + (2x − 7y).
- Remove brackets
- x terms: 6x, y terms: -15y
- Answer: 6x − 15y
Worked example 2 (Standard)
Simplify (8x + 3y) − (8x + 9y).
- Change every sign in the second bracket
- x terms: 0x, y terms: -6y
- Answer: −6y
Worked example 3 (Challenge)
Simplify (2x + 6y) − (8x − 2y).
- Change every sign in the second bracket
- x terms: -6x, y terms: 8y
- Answer: −6x + 8y
Common mistakes and misconceptions
- Adding unlike terms (2x + 3y = 5xy)
- Not changing all signs after a minus
Practice questions
- (Basic) Simplify (4x + 3y) + (7x − 5y).
- (Basic) Simplify (5x − 7y) + (9x + 2y).
- (Standard) Simplify (7x + 3y) − (7x − 7y).
- (Standard) Simplify (4x − 7y) − (3x + 3y).
- (Challenge) Simplify (9x + 6y) − (7x − 2y).
- (Challenge) Simplify (5x − 7y) − (6x − 8y).
Answer key with full working
- Q1: Remove brackets → x terms: 11x, y terms: -2y → Answer: 11x − 2y
- Q2: Remove brackets → x terms: 14x, y terms: -5y → Answer: 14x − 5y
- Q3: Change every sign in the second bracket → x terms: 0x, y terms: 10y → Answer: 10y
- Q4: Change every sign in the second bracket → x terms: 1x, y terms: -10y → Answer: x − 10y
- Q5: Change every sign in the second bracket → x terms: 2x, y terms: 8y → Answer: 2x + 8y
- Q6: Change every sign in the second bracket → x terms: -1x, y terms: 1y → Answer: −x + y
Syllabus note
This skill is listed under "Algebraic Expressions" for Class 7 in the NCERT/CBSE books. ICSE, IGCSE, IB and state boards may teach it in a different chapter or year.
Answers on this page are generated and automatically re-checked by a second, independent calculation. They have not been reviewed by a teacher — if you spot a problem, tell us on WhatsApp.
Related practice and notes
Frequently asked questions
Which chapter is simplifying expressions and like terms in?
"Algebraic Expressions", Class 7 Maths (NCERT/CBSE). Other boards may place it differently.
How were the answers checked?
Answers on this page are generated and automatically re-checked by a second, independent calculation. They have not been reviewed by a teacher — if you spot a problem, tell us on WhatsApp.