Master Algebraic Magic 2026: Combine Like Terms & Simplify Your Success!

To simplify the expression 5b + 3 - 2b + 1, you begin by identifying and combining the like terms. Like terms are those that contain the same variable to the same power.

First, group the terms that include the variable b together and the constant terms together:

1. The terms with b are 5b and -2b. When combined, you perform the operation:

\( 5b - 2b = 3b \).

2. The constant terms are 3 and 1. Adding these together gives:

\( 3 + 1 = 4 \).

Putting it all together, the simplified expression becomes:

\( 3b + 4 \).

This matches with the correct answer, which indicates that the simplification process accurately combined both like terms of the variable and the constants.