Simplifying Rational Expressions: Addition and Subtraction
Adding and Subtracting Fractions Add the Numerators Least Common Denominator (if you can find it) Common Denominator Remember to Simplify if Possible! Addition: Subtraction: Subtract the Numerators
Add/Subtract Rational Expressions Simplify: Same denominator! Half the work is done! CAREFUL with subtraction! Combine Like Terms Make sure it can’t be simplified more
Add/Subtract Rational Expressions Simplify: Find a Common Denominator Combine Like Terms
Add/Subtract Rational Expressions Simplify: Find a common denominator Distribute numerators but leave the denominators factored CAREFUL with subtraction Combine like Terms
Add/Subtract Rational Expressions Simplify: Factor to find a Smaller Common Denominator Make sure it can’t be simplified beforehand
Add/Subtract Rational Expressions Simplify: Factor to find a Smaller Common Denominator Make sure it can’t be simplified more