How do you simplify an algebraic expression?

Answer by  Patrick1127 (79)

Multiply the first term of the first parenthesis by the first term of the second parenthesis. Basically, by the end you'll multiply every combination of things. In your example: xx - ax - bx + ab

Answer by  andre (7)

Start by simplifying first two factors, say (x-a)&(x-b). Multiply each of the terms in the first parentheses to each of the term in the second parentheses. Then, add the resulting terms up. Repeat the same process to this result with the third factor and so forth until the last factor.