2 Simplifying algebraic expressions

Whenever you wish to solve an expression, you should first rearrange it to make it as simple as possible, then manipulate it. If you try to manipulate expressions in a complex form, you increase the possibility of making mistakes or becoming confused. Once the expression has been simplified, you can either solve it or state it in its most simplified form.

First, though, a quick reminder about the rules for order of mathematical operations.