Lesson 4 Homework Practice Subtracting Linear Expressions Fix Jun 2026

Align like terms on top of each other, similar to standard subtraction. (6x + 7) - (2x + 3) ---------- 4x + 4

Why does this matter? In Lesson 4, you’ll likely see word problems involving geometry (finding the difference between two perimeters) or business (calculating profit by subtracting costs from revenue). If a rectangle has a perimeter of and a smaller inner rectangle has a perimeter of , the remaining distance is found by subtracting:

The subtraction sign applies to inside the second set of parentheses. You are essentially multiplying every term in that second expression by -1. The Process: Lesson 4 Homework Practice Subtracting Linear Expressions

Let's illustrate this with an example:

For example:

((8x - 2) - (3x + 4)) = (8x - 2 - 3x - 4) = (5x - 6)

Add or subtract the coefficients of the variable terms and combine the constants to reach the final simplified expression Worked Example Distribute the negative sign: Rewrite the expression: Group like terms: Common Mistakes to Avoid Subtracting Linear Expressions: Easy Steps & Practice Guide Align like terms on top of each other,

Subtract 3x - 2 from 2x + 5