Simplify the Polynomial Expression: 7y² - 3y + 4

You can only combine like terms - terms with exactly the same variable and exponent. Since $7y^2$ has y² and $-3y$ has y¹, they're different types of terms!

Like terms must have:

• The same variable (like y)
• The same exponent (like y² with y² or y with y)
• Only the coefficients can be different

Yes! When no terms can be combined, the expression is already simplified. Think of it like organizing different objects - you can't combine apples, oranges, and bananas into one item.

A polynomial is simplified when:

• No two terms have the same variable part
• Terms are arranged in descending order by degree
• All coefficients are in simplest form

Then you could combine the like terms! $7y^2 + 2y^2 = 9y^2$, giving you $9y^2 - 3y + 4$ as the simplified form.