Solution: Use the distributive property:

["Boost Your Math Skills: Use the Distributive Property to Simplify Expressions Fast", "Mathematics becomes much easier when you understand and apply powerful tools like the distributive property. Whether you're solving equations, working with algebra, or tackling word problems, mastering this concept can save you time, boost accuracy, and deepen your problem-solving skills.", "---", "### What Is the Distributive Property?", "The distributive property is a fundamental algebraic rule that allows you to "distribute" a number or term across factors inside parentheses. It’s expressed mathematically as:", "$$\na(b + c) = ab + ac\n$$", "This means you multiply the term outside the parentheses by each term inside, then combine the results.", "Example:\nDistribute 3 across (x + 4):\n$$\n3(x + 4) = 3 \cdot x + 3 \cdot 4 = 3x + 12\n$$", "---", "### Why Use the Distributive Property?", "Using the distributive property helps simplify complex expressions by breaking them into simpler, manageable parts. Here are key benefits:", "- Simplifies calculations — Avoid nested parentheses and tangled expressions.\n- Solves algebraic equations efficiently — Especially when dealing with expressions like 2(3x + 5) or 4(–x + 7).\n- Helps factor expressions — Recognizing common factors becomes much easier.\n- Improves accuracy — Reduces errors by clearly showing each step of the process.", "---", "### How to Apply the Distributive Property Effectively", "1. Identify terms inside parentheses — Look for expressions enclosed in parentheses that need to be expanded.\n2. Multiply each term — Distribute the factor to every term inside the brackets.\n3. Combine like terms — After distributing, simplify by adding or combining similar terms.\n4. Check your work — Re-Multiply any expanded expressions to verify correctness.", "---", "### Real-World Applications", "Understanding how to use the distributive property isn’t just for homework — it's essential in everyday and professional settings. For example:", "- Budgeting: Distribute costs across multiple categories.\n- Physics: Expand force expressions like ( F = m(a + b) ).\n- Engineering: Simplify formulas involving multiple variable terms.", "---", "### Practice Makes Perfect", "Here’s a quick algebraic practice problem to apply the distributive property:", "Simplify:\n$$\n5(2x - 3) + 2(x + 4)\n$$", "Step-by-step:", "- Distribute the 5: ( 5 \cdot 2x = 10x ), ( 5 \cdot (-3) = -15 )\n- Distribute the 2: ( 2 \cdot x = 2x ), ( 2 \cdot 4 = 8 )\n- Combine: ( 10x - 15 + 2x + 8 )\n- Final simplified form: ( 12x - 7 )", "---", "### Conclusion", "The distributive property is a cornerstone of algebra that empowers you to tackle complex expressions with confidence. By learning to distribute terms correctly, you’ll solve equations faster, reduce errors, and build a stronger math foundation. Start practicing today — your future self in math will thank you!", "---", "Keywords: distributive property, algebra, simplify expressions, solve equations, math tips, education, algebra practice, distribute terms, math rules, high school math, problem solving, step-by-step math, distributive property explained."]