7th Grade Math · Combining Like Terms
With subtraction Worksheets
Fresh practice, ready to print. Answer key included.
Expressions such as 4x + 3 − x + 7, where a term is subtracted.
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Or start with a ready-made version.
How it works: a quick refresher
The rules this worksheet practices, then one problem worked from start to finish.
| Strategy | How it works |
|---|---|
| Like terms share the letter | 4x and x are like terms. 4x and 7 are not. Add or subtract the numbers in front of the letter, and add or subtract the plain numbers separately. |
| A minus sign stays with the next term | In 4x + 3 − x + 7, the terms are 4x, +3, −x, and +7. 4x − x = 3x and 3 + 7 = 10. |
| x means 1x | Subtracting x subtracts one of them. 5x − x = 4x, not 5. |
| Distribute before you combine | 3(x + 2) is 3x + 6. Then combine that with the other x terms. |
| Write the variable term first | 3x + 10 and 10 + 3x are the same value. These pages write the variable term first. |
Worked example
Simplify 4x + 3 − x + 7.
- 1Variable terms: 4x − x = 3x.
- 2Plain numbers: 3 + 7 = 10.
- 34x + 3 − x + 7 = 3x + 10.
Ready-made versions
Three fixed versions you can link to or share. Each is a PDF with its own answer key.
- With subtraction Worksheets, version 1Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
- With subtraction Worksheets, version 2Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
- With subtraction Worksheets, version 3Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
Grade level and standard
Written for 7th grade math (expressions and equations) and aligned to CCSS 7.EE.A.1. It also works as review in later grades.
Common questions
- Is there an answer key?
- Yes. Every worksheet has a matching answer key with each answer worked on the same grid or layout as the question. The worksheet ID printed at the bottom of each page pairs a sheet with its key.
- Does the order of the terms change the answer?
- No. 4x + 3 − x + 7 and 4x − x + 3 + 7 simplify to the same thing. Combining is easier when the x terms are gathered and the plain numbers are gathered.
- What should my child do with 3(x + 2)?
- Multiply 3 by each term inside: 3 × x is 3x, and 3 × 2 is 6. Then combine those with any like terms outside the parentheses.
- How many different versions are there?
- About a million per skill. Each time you press the button the problems are generated fresh, so you can print a different version for every student, a retake, or another night of practice.
- Are the worksheets free?
- Yes. They are free to print and copy for your home or classroom, with no sign-up.