How to Remove Parentheses in Algebra
Many math equations use parentheses to symbolize which actions should be done first, or to create a multiplication problem without writing the multiplication symbol repeatedly. While these parentheses are useful, they aren't always necessary. They can add an extra layer of complexity to a problem, making it harder to solve. Removing these parenthetical statements and simplifying the problem can help you find the solution faster.
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Instructions
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Simplify the expression when the equation uses only addition and subtraction. If an addition sign precedes the parenthetical, remove the parentheses without making any changes to the numbers. If a subtraction sign precedes the parenthetical, change the sign of each number within the parentheses. For example, negative numbers will become positive and vice versa.
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Remove the parentheses by performing the operations around it. In many cases, the equation might have a number outside the parentheses without a sign between the number and parenthetical, with multiple numbers inside the parenthetical. Multiply the outside number by each individual number inside the parenthetical, leaving the original sign between each number inside the parenthesis. Remove the parentheses.
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Simplify the expression and remove parentheses when there is more than one parenthetical in a statement by performing the operations within each parenthetical. For example, each parentheses might have an equation within itself consisting of multiple numbers with an addition or subtraction sign between the two. Perform the operations with each set of parentheses, remove the parentheses and keep the original sign between the two. But remember to change the sign of each number in a parenthetical that has a subtraction sign in front of it.
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