Do you simplify while using the distributive property to write an expression?

Answer 1

When using the distributive property to write an expression, you do not simplify within the parentheses before applying the property. The distributive property involves multiplying the term outside the parentheses by each term inside the parentheses. Once you have distributed the term, you can then simplify the resulting expression by combining like terms. Simplifying before distributing would result in an incorrect application of the distributive property.

Answer 2

the distributive property is only used when simplifying expressions or solving an equation: to write an expression just translate the question into symbols and letters - you don't need to use the distributive property or any other property for that