Distributive Property Calculator

Published on: October 20, 2024

Enter an expression like 3(x + 4) or 3(x + 4) − 2(y − 15), and this tool will apply the distributive property.

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)