In algebra, letters are used when numbers are not known. Algebraic terms, such as \(2s\) or \(8y\), leave the multiplication signs out. So rather than \(2 \times s\), write \(2s\), and rather than \(8 ...

Algebraic expressions can be expanded - multiplied by one or more terms. They may also be simplified – made shorter and simpler by collecting like terms. Multiply \(-3\) by \(-4\) using the rule for ...