Calculators / Algebra 1 / Distributive Property Calculator

Distributive Property Calculator

Published on: October 20, 2024

This Distributive Property Calculator helps you expand algebraic expressions by applying the distributive property step by step. Multiply the value outside the brackets by each term inside, keeping track of signs carefully. Then simplify the result if any like terms can be combined. It is a simple way to check answers, understand expression expansion, and practise basic algebra step by step.

Step-by-step method

Identify the expression.
Write the formula.
Distribute to remove parentheses.
Combine like terms (if any).

Formula:

a(b + c) = ab + ac and a(b − c) = ab − ac

Example 1: 3(x + 4)

Step 1 - Identify the expression.

In this problem: The given expression is 3(x + 4).

3(x + 4)

Step 2 - Write the formula.

In this problem: Use the distributive property formula.

a(b + c) = ab + ac , a(b − c) = ab − ac

Step 3 - Distribute to remove parentheses.

In this problem: Distribute to remove the parentheses (do not combine yet).

3(x + 4)=3x + 12

Step 4 - Combine like terms (if any).

In this problem: Now combine like terms to simplify.

3x + 12=3x + 12

Final answer: 3x + 12

Example 2: 3(x + 4) − 2(y - 15)

Step 1 - Identify the expression.

In this problem: The given expression is 3(x + 4) − 2(y - 15).

3(x + 4) − 2(y - 15)