Multiplying and simplifying rational expressions | Algebra II | Khan Academy

Multiplying and Simplifying Rational Expressions

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[anorman]

I honestly think it's simpler and more direct to simplify afterwards, like Mr. Khan did. There's more arithmetic, but less algorithm, so it's less confusing.

[jeffaschwarz]

Simplify the numbers first, then multiply. You get smaller numbers and make fewer mistakes. Simplify by factoring the numbers and then cross out top and bottom matching numbers.

[gurkiratsingh]

what if i simplify the numbers first. i did that and got the same answer was just wondering if that method would work for all multiplying expressions

[GoldenAngelDragon]

Maybe it doesn't matter how you do it. As long as you get the correct result and you're more comfortable with it. ... or maybe you might have to do both ways.... Uncertainty has fallen on top of me.