Example 1 Easy
Which expression is equivalent to 3x^2 + 5x^2 - 2x?
- 8x^2 - 2x
- 8x - 2x
- 6x^2
- 3x^4 - 2x
Show answer and explanation
Answer: 8x^2 - 2x
Combine only like terms: 3x^2 + 5x^2 = 8x^2, while -2x remains separate.
SAT Math skill page
SAT Polynomials Practice
Use structure in expressions so factoring and expanding feel predictable instead of messy.
12-18 min practice time 3 examples on page Advanced Math
What this tests
What to know for this SAT skill
- Combine like terms in polynomial expressions
- Expand products of binomials
- Factor simple quadratics
- Recognize equivalent polynomial forms
Practice examples
Try a few SAT-style questions
Example 2 Medium
Which expression is equivalent to (x + 4)(x - 3)?
- x^2 + x - 12
- x^2 - x + 12
- x^2 + 7x - 12
- x^2 - 12
Show answer and explanation
Answer: x^2 + x - 12
Multiply each term: x^2 - 3x + 4x - 12 = x^2 + x - 12.
Example 3 Hard
Which expression is a factor of x^2 - 9x + 20?
- x - 4
- x + 4
- x - 9
- x + 20
Show answer and explanation
Answer: x - 4
The numbers that multiply to 20 and add to -9 are -4 and -5, so the expression factors as (x - 4)(x - 5).
Quick drills
Practice this skill from more angles
Combine like terms in polynomial expressions
Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.
Expand products of binomials
Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.
Factor simple quadratics
Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.
Recognize equivalent polynomial forms
Pause before the answer choices, write the rule or setup you need, then check whether the question is asking for the value, the relationship, or the best-supported conclusion.
Avoid these traps
Common mistakes on this skill
Solving before naming the task
The SAT often hides the real skill inside familiar wording. Identify the rule, relationship, or question type first.
Choosing an answer that only partly fits
Many wrong answers are close. Check every condition in the question before committing.
Skipping the final check
Reread what the question asks for so you do not answer a nearby but different question.
Study plan
How to practice this skill in Dolphin
- Read the question and name the tested skill before looking at the choices.
- Write the equation, rule, or passage relationship in plain language.
- Eliminate answers that violate the setup or overstate the evidence.
- Review misses by writing the exact trap that pulled you toward the wrong answer.
Related practice
Build the surrounding skills
Skill cluster
Keep practicing SAT Math
FAQ
Questions about SAT Polynomials Practice
What is the best way to practice SAT Polynomials Practice?
Start with a few focused examples, review the mistake pattern, then mix the skill into full SAT practice so you can recognize it in context.
Why does this skill matter on the SAT?
It shows up in short, high-leverage questions where one missed rule or setup can quickly cost a point.
Can Dolphin SAT help me drill this skill?
Yes. Dolphin SAT can surface targeted practice, track missed questions, and help you review the patterns that keep repeating.